AMBS Catalog 2014-2015

2014–15
Academic CatalogThe information in this catalog applies to the 2014–15 academic year. Care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information in this publication; the information is susceptible, however, to unintended error and is subject to changes or deletions. AMBS reserves the right to change programs of study, academic requirements, the academic calendar, and other matters described here without prior notice, in accordance with established procedures. This catalog is descriptive and is not to be construed as a legal contract.
This catalog is available on the AMBS website at www.ambs.edu/academics/catalog.cfm and in a limited number of print copies. The online version is the most up-to-date and contains links to facilitate easier use.Table of contents
Academic calendar overview..................................................... 2
General information.................................................................. 4
Academic programs.................................................................... 7
• Master of Divinity (MDiv).....................................10
• Master of Arts in Christian Formation (MACF)...26
• Master of Arts: Peace Studies (MAPS).................. 30
• Master of Arts: Theological Studies (MATS).........38
• Dual-degree programs.......................................... 44
• Certificate programs............................................. 54
AMBS–Kansas Center............................................................. 57
Course descriptions.................................................................. 63
• Bible (BIB)............................................................... 66
• History, Theology and Ethics (HTE)......................82
• Church and Ministry (CHM).................................98
• Ministry Formation and Assessment (INT)........118
• AMBS–Great Plains............................................124
• Peace and Justice courses.....................................128
• SCUPE..................................................................130
Admissions..............................................................................137
Academic policies and procedures..........................................143
Tuition and fees.......................................................................161
Faculty, staff, and administration..........................................165
Indexes.................................................................................... 171
• Course list index–alphabetical.............................172
• AMBS–Kansas Center index–alphabetical.........175
• Course list index–numerical................................176
• AMBS–Kansas Center index–numerical............180
• Topical index.........................................................181
• Photo index...........................................................185
2014–15 ACADEMIC CATALOG
3003 Benham Avenue
Elkhart, IN 46517
800.964.2627
www.ambs.eduAcademic calendar overview
Fall semester 2014
August 11 .............................Fall hybrid courses, including Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP) and MA Symposium, begin with online work
25–30 � Fall hybrid courses meet on campus
September 2 � Fall on-campus and online classes begin
October 13 � Canadian Thanksgiving—No classes (offices closed)
14–November 7 � Advising and course selection for Interterm and Spring
November 27–29 � U.S. Thanksgiving—No classes (offices closed)
December 12 � Final day of fall classes
Interterm 2015—Hybrid courses
December 15 � Hybrid courses begin
January 12–17 � Hybrid courses meet on campus
March 1 � Hybrid courses end
Interterm 2015—On-campus courses
January 5 � Classes begin
19 � Martin Luther King Jr. Day—No classes (offices closed)
Special activities
23 � Classes end
Pastors Week 2015
January 26 � Leadership Clinics
26–29 � Pastors Week
2 2014–15 Academic Catalog • Academic calendar overviewSpring semester 2015
February 3 � Spring on-campus and online classes begin
March 11–April 3 � Advising and course selection for Summer and Fall
April 3 � Good Friday—No classes (offices closed)
3–11 � Spring recess—No classes
May 20 � Final day of spring classes
23 � Commencement
Summer 2015—Hybrid courses
May 21 � Hybrid courses begin
June 22–26 � Hybrid courses meet on campus
July 31 � Hybrid courses end
Summer 2015—On-campus courses
June 1 � Classes begin
July 18 � End of Summer term
For the complete calendar, including all dates for payments, course changes and refunds, see the online academic calendar at www.ambs.edu/academics/Academic-Calendar.cfm. Students are accountable to know and adhere to dates as posted in the online calendar.
2014–15 Academic Catalog • Academic calendar overview 3General information
Mission statement
Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary serves the church as a learning community with an Anabaptist vision, educating followers of Jesus Christ to be leaders for God’s reconciling mission in the world.
Core values
•
Disciplined study of Scripture, theology, and ministry
•
Practices of worship, community, and Christian discipleship
•
Effective and visionary leadership for the church
•
Anabaptist theology in conversation with the wider church
•
Mission that integrates service, evangelism, and peacemaking
Vision statement
The AMBS vision statement, adopted April 2010, sets the seminary's direction during the next few years.
AMBS will become an Anabaptist learning community that makes theological education accessible to and welcoming of Christians of increasingly diverse traditions, ethnicities, and races to reflect more fully God’s purposes of unity
and justice.
Antiracism commitment
AMBS is committed to becoming an antiracist institution. One of the ways we engage this ongoing work is through an antiracism team composed of students, faculty, and staff that identifies and works to dismantle racism within the seminary community. For more information on the seminary’s antiracism work, contact Nekeisha Alexis-Baker, Intercultural Competence and Undoing Racism coordinator, at 574.296.6274 or nabaker@ambs.edu.
4 2014–15 Academic Catalog • General information
Admission policy
AMBS is committed to dismantling barriers to equality within the seminary and the communities where we live and serve. As part of this commitment, AMBS will make decisions regarding admission to study at AMBS without discrimination on the basis of age, race, religion, physical disability, national or ethnic origin, gender, and sexual orientation. See the AMBS Academic Policies and Procedures Manual and the AMBS Community Life Manual for more details about admission to AMBS degree programs and community life.
Accreditation notice
Since 1958, the degree programs of AMBS have been accredited by The Association of Theological Schools:
Accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, and the following degree programs are approved:
MDiv, MA in Christian Formation, MA (Peace Studies), MA (Theological Studies)
The Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada
10 Summit Park Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15275
USA
Telephone: 412-788-6505
Fax: 412-788-6510
Website: www.ats.edu
Since 1974, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission: www.ncahlc.org, 800.621.7440.
The date of the most recent reaccreditation by these two organizations is 2009.
Online catalog
Visit www.ambs.edu/academics/catalog.cfm for the most current version of the AMBS catalog.
2014–15 Academic Catalog • General information 5
Learn more about AMBS
Admissions � admissions@ambs.edu
Registrar � registrar@ambs.edu
Phone � 800.964.2627 (toll free) or 574.295.3726
Online
Website � www.ambs.edu
Facebook � www.facebook.com/followAMBS
Issuu � www.issuu.com/ambsreport
6 2014–15 Academic Catalog • General information
ACADEMIC PROGRAMSPrograms of study
Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary offers four graduate degrees, two dual-degree programs and three 27-credit-hour certificate programs.
Detailed worksheets with requirements for each degree program and each major or concentration are available to students on Google Drive. Questions about these workshops can be directed to the registrar’s office.
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
The Master of Divinity degree is designed to educate and form Christian women and men for ministerial leadership in a variety of ministry settings, including pastoral leadership. Majors are available in Pastoral Ministry, Pastoral Care and Counseling, Christian Faith Formation, Christian Leadership, and Theological Studies. Within the Theological Studies major, a student can focus in Biblical Studies, Theology and Ethics, or Peace Studies. In partnership with Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, an MDiv plan of study is available for United Methodist students.
Students may pursue this degree through the Master of Divinity Campus program or the Master of Divinity Connect program.
Master of Arts in Christian Formation (MACF)
The Master of Arts in Christian Formation ministry degree prepares students for leadership through concentrations in Christian Spirituality, and Public Ministries.
Master of Arts: Peace Studies (MAPS)
The Master of Arts: Peace Studies is an academic degree that prepares students for peace and justice ministries in mission, service, mediation, church, and congregational locations. In addition to the Primary Program three other concentrations are available: Community Development, Conflict Transformation, and International Development Administration.
8 Academic programs • Programs of studyMaster of Arts: Theological Studies (MATS)
The Master of Arts: Theological Studies is an academic degree that provides a basis for further academic work, supplements professional training in other fields, and prepares students for stronger participation in the life, mission, and service of the church. Concentrations are available in Biblical Studies, Church History, and Theology and Ethics.
Dual-degree programs
AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University
Master of Social Work
The dual-degree Master of Divinity and Master of Social Work (at Andrews
University, Berrien Springs, Mich.) prepares students for bivocational congregational leadership, work in faith-based agencies, certification in counseling or administra­tion, and development of community programs.
AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and Andrews University Master of Social Work
The dual-degree Master of Arts: Peace Studies and Master of Social Work (at Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Mich.) prepares students for community development in North America or other countries, or in faith-based agencies.
Certificates
Certificates offer professionals, congregational leaders, and bivocational pastors a foundation in theological and biblical study. They are offered as enrichment for people seeking deeper grounding as Christians in their current work; they do not meet requirements for gainful employment.
New programs and changes in programs of study
AMBS may add new concentrations or make changes in programs of study during the period in which this catalog is in effect. For the most up-to-date information on academic programs, see the online catalog at www.ambs.edu/academics/catalog.cfm.
Academic programs • Programs of study 9Master of Divinity
(MDiv Campus; MDiv Connect)
Educational goals
Graduates with an MDiv:
1.
Are grounded in and are continuously formed by the Bible.
2.
Engage their historical and theological traditions in the context
of the larger Christian church.
3.
Are formed by a continuing encounter with God.
4.
Demonstrate personal integrity and authority in ministry.
5.
Understand and creatively engage their ministry context.
6.
Lead the church in fulfilling its missional calling.
Purpose
The Master of Divinity curriculum prepares men and women for Christian ministe­rial leadership. It is designed to develop spiritually mature, Spirit-led leaders to care for and guide the church, school, other faith-based ministries or areas of Christian service. Majors are available in Pastoral Ministry, Pastoral Care and Counseling, Christian Faith Formation, Christian Leadership, and Theological Studies. Students in the Theological Studies major may focus in Biblical Studies, Theology and Ethics, or Peace Studies. In partnership with Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, an MDiv plan of study is available for United Methodist students.
Education for ministerial leadership involves attention to a student’s growth in theological discernment and competency in ministry, as well as the development of character, sense of call, ministerial identity and skills, spiritual depth, and commitment to service in the name of Christ.
Preparation for pastoral service in the Believers Church tradition requires more than developing a ministerial presence in specific situations or for individuals. The Master of Divinity program builds competence and confidence in students to provide leadership for the church’s mission, life, and witness, as well as leading faith-based organizations to participate in God’s reconciling mission. Ministerial leadership assists the spiritual growth of groups of believers, building them together into a “dwelling place of God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22) for service in the world.
10 Academic programs • Master of Divinity The MDiv curriculum expresses and supports the AMBS Mission Statement
by emphasizing:
•
Commitment to Jesus Christ
•
Anabaptist history, theology, and vision
•
Service to the church expressed through the Anabaptist and Mennonite traditions within Christianity
•
Missional leadership development
•
Participation in God’s reconciling mission
•
Education within a faithful learning community
The curriculum focuses on the following broad practices:
•
Embodied witness to faith in Jesus Christ
•
Holistic formation (i.e., intellectual, emotional, spiritual, physical)
•
Grounding in biblical, theological, and historical studies for embodied practice of ministry
•
Theological analysis of cultural context(s) in which the local and global church
are found
•
Justice and reconciliation in all relationships, with special attention
given to those where the dynamics of race, gender, and class are present
•
Commitments to life-long reflection and learning for missional leadership practice
Studies in the MDiv program emphasize key Anabaptist commitments and values:
•
The church’s purpose as witness and herald of the good news of Jesus Christ
•
The loving and honest study of the bible to guide faithful Christian discernment
•
The centrality of peace and justice in the saving gospel message
•
The congregation as the central locus of theological discernment, worship, spiritual formation, and accountability with the larger church
•
The integrity and character of Christian discipleship essential for
Christ-like leadership
•
The shape of missional leadership in the variety of contexts where
students and graduates are called to minister
Academic programs • Master of Divinity 11Master of Divinity program design
The Master of Divinity degree requires:
•
80 credit hours of successfully completed study
•
Satisfactory completion of a degree plan of study with demonstrations of information literacy, completion of a senior ministry case study paper, senior presentation based on significant learning during the seminary experience with a faculty interview, and faculty recommendation for graduation
AMBS offers the Master of Divinity program in two expressions: MDiv Campus and MDiv Connect.
•
The MDiv Campus program consists of courses offered in face-to-face teaching formats for the duration of the program. Some courses may be taken online; some required courses will be offered in a hybrid format. Students may complete the MDiv program in three years of full-time study.
•
The MDiv Connect program allows for fifty credit hours of coursework to be done online with thirty hours of residency met through hybrid courses. Students may complete the MDiv Connect program in five and one-half years of consistent part-time study.
The 80-credit hour MDiv Campus program is designed as a three-year program including Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (orientation) course in August, fall and spring semesters, January interterm and one summer school session each year. Following this cycle of courses enables students in the the dual-degree MDiv and MSW program to earn both degrees in four years.
The 80-credit hour MDiv Connect program is designed as a five and one-half year program (with students taking an average of 14 credit hours per year) including Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (orientation) course in August; following this the student must take each year one or two online courses every fall and spring semester, a January interterm hybrid course, and a summer hybrid course. Students in the Pastoral Care and Counseling or Christian Faith Formation majors may have some required hybrid courses in August. Some programs also may require a second on-campus summer school term in one or two of the years of study.
The Master of Divinity for United Methodists is currently approved as a 80-credit hour program of study. UM students take courses totaling 15 credit hours from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary to earn a Certificate in United Methodist Studies and 65 credit hours of AMBS courses either on campus on in a hybrid format.
12 Academic programs • Master of Divinity
Courses offered through the Bible curriculum orient students to the study of Scripture by introducing them to the biblical languages, guiding them into the disciplines of Old and New Testament studies and biblical theology, and aiding them in the interpretation of Scripture. The Recommended Sequence is for those who will use the Bible actively in their teaching and praching ministry. This sequence prepares students to work with the biblical languages, interpret Scripture, and use commentaries, Bible curricular requirements can also be met through the Alternative Sequence with the approval of the student’s faculty adviser.
The History, Theology, and Ethics curriculum encourages engagement with and appropriation of Anabaptist-Mennonite thought and practice as well as other Christian traditions; it develops the ability to address contemporary issues that impact the church and society using perspectives gained through historical, theological, ethical, and biblical study.
The Church and Ministry curriculum develops theological vision and reflection for and practice in the skills of a variety of ministry arts.
Ministry Formation and Assessment
The MDiv curriculum involves careful advising, mentoring, and assessment of growth in ministry. The advising process is intended to undergird and strengthen the student’s vocational discernment, self-awareness, spiritual growth, sense of ministerial identity, and academic progress.
•
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP) is a required hybrid course that orients students to theological studies, the nature of missional leadership, the formation of the learning community, opportunities for personal assessment, and exploration of sustaining spiritual practices. Students create a formation portfolio to lodge various assessments of their academic progress and ministerial competency during their seminary studies. Assignments in the course prepare students to petition for formal admission into the MDiv program after they have completed twelve credit hours. LEAP faculty leaders complete an assessment evaluating the student’s demonstrated readiness to enter the MDiv program as part of the petition process.
•
Ministry in Church and World is a two-semester part-time supervised ministry placement. Students may be assigned to congregational, hospital, jail, or other faith-based ministry agency. Internship work averages eight to ten hours of on-site ministry per week. In addition to the work on site, students participate in a peer supervision group that explores the practical, biblical, and theological dimensions of their ministry experiences. During the second semester students
Academic programs • Master of Divinity 13
write the first draft of a ministry case study that they will complete during the Capstone Ministry Assessment Seminar. Faculty leaders of the supervision group write an assessment evaluating each student’s growth in ministry competence and abilities to use their increasing historical, theological, and biblical knowledge in the service of ministry, which is added to the student’s formation portfolio.
•
The Capstone Ministry Assessment Seminar requires students to evaluate their growing competence in ministry, their learning from coursework, and their spiritual growth over the period of their seminary studies. Peer groups led by faculty examine and refine each student’s ministry case study, review the student’s formation portfolio, and help the student prepare the oral presentation for interview. A senior ministry assessment is written by the seminar leader and is approved by examining faculty during the interview. This assessment remains in the student’s permanent file.
Admission to the Master of Divinity degree program
At the time of application to AMBS, a student indicates his or her intention to pursue the MDiv Campus or MDiv Connect option of the MDiv. Students may petition for formal admission into the MDiv program when they have successfully completed twelve credit hours of study and are in process with other courses. Transfer students may petition for admission after they have completed 30 credit hours of theological study. Admission into the Master of Divinity program requires recommendation of the Admissions and Assessment Committee and action by the AMBS faculty on the recommendation.
Admission to the MDiv degree program is contingent upon the following:
•
Completion of Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP)
•
Supporting evidence of the student’s call to ministry
•
Completion of personality inventories
•
Submission of a plan for growth in spiritual formation
•
Recommendations of the student’s LEAP faculty leader and academic adviser
•
Action of the Admissions and Assessment Committee and the AMBS faculty
Students transferring into AMBS after a year or more of study at another accredited graduate school must solicit statements and recommendations in support of their admission to the MDiv degree program from congregational leaders, mentors, or ministry supervisors, as well as submit written assessments from previous schools. These recommendations should be submitted prior to enrollment in the second-year Ministry in Church and World course. The Admissions and Assessment Committee or the MDiv Director will review the petition and make a recommendation to the faculty; action by the faculty on the recommendation is required.
14 Academic programs • Master of Divinity
Common requirements for all MDiv majors
Thirty-six hours of common curriculum are shared by all majors of the Master of Divinity degree program and the Master of Divinity dual degree programs. Students are strongly encouraged to take the following courses in the sequence outlined in the plan of study for their major. (Credit hours are on the right.)
••
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective....................................2
••
Reading the Bible.....................................................................................3
••
Old Testament or New Testament Book Study......................................3
••
Anabaptist History and Theology*.........................................................3
••
Christian Theology 1...............................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 2...............................................................................3
••
Church History elective*.........................................................................3
••
Ethics elective...........................................................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness................................................3
••
Ministry in Church and World Internship.............................................6
••
Supervised Ministry Experience.............................................................3
••
Capstone Ministry Assessment Seminar...............................................1
*Three two-credit hour online United Methodist courses in history, doctrine, and polity through Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary fulfill the requirements for Anabaptist History and Theology and the Church History elective.
Academic programs • Master of Divinity 15
Master of Divinity
Pastoral Ministry major
The Pastoral Ministry major is designed and recommended for students who are pre­paring to be leaders in congregational settings. Missional theology interpreted with an Anabaptist perspective and expressed in local and global church contexts is a key perspective of this major. Courses in biblical studies, theology, church history, and ethics examine the ways in which the tradition, context, and narratives of God’s sha­lom shape the responses of faith communities. Attention will be given to the critical role that culture plays in forming narratives and values that may compete with the biblical vision of God’s reign. Courses in practical theology center on practices that build the competence of missional leaders for the church.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old or New Testament exegesis.................................................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Ethics elective.............................................................................................................3
Major requirements.......................................................................................15
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
••
Understanding the Church’s Contexts (recommended)
or Cultural Hermeneutics or another social analysis course..................................3
Other electives..............................................................................................14
16 Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Pastoral Ministry majorPastoral Ministry major for United Methodist students
AMBS and Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary (G-ETS), Evanston, Ill., work in partnership to offer an MDiv in pastoral ministry for United Methodist students who are preparing for ordination, a partnership endorsed by the University Senate of The United Methodist Church. AMBS is currently approved to offer an 80-credit hour MDiv for United Methodist students. UM students take 15 credit hours from G-ETS to earn a Certificate in United Methodist Studies. These courses meet six key United Methodist educational requirements—United Methodist History, Doctrine, and Polity; Evangelism; Mission of the Church in the World; and Worship. They replace other courses normally required in the AMBS MDiv pastoral ministry concentration. G-ETS courses are frequently taught online or as intensives in January or summer. Further information about the partnership, the G-ETS certificate, how to register and fees can be found at www.garrett.edu/ambs-partnership/ambs-students and www.ambs.edu/academics/United-Methodist-Master-of-Divinity.cfm. Or contact the AMBS registrar: registrar@ambs.edu.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements..................................................................................36
••
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP)........................................2
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Old Testament or New Testament Book Study........................................................3
••
United Methodist Doctrine (G-ETS)........................................................................2
••
United Methodist History (G-ETS)..........................................................................2
••
United Methodist Polity (G-ETS).............................................................................2
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 2.................................................................................................3
••
Ethics elective.............................................................................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
Ministry in Church and World.................................................................................6
••
Supervised Ministry Experience...............................................................................3
••
Capstone Ministry Assessment Seminar.................................................................1
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old or New Testament exegesis.................................................................................3
Academic programs • Pastoral Ministry major for United Methodist students 17Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Ethics elective.............................................................................................................3
Major requirements ......................................................................................22
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Foundations of Preaching..........................................................................................2
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
••
Understanding the Church’s Contexts (recommended)
or Cultural Hermeneutics or another social analysis course..................................3
••
United Methodist Worship: Theory and Practice (G-ETS) ....................................3
••
A United Methodist mission of the church in the world course (G-ETS)..............3
••
A United Methodist evangelism course (G-ETS).....................................................3
Other electives................................................................................................7
18 Academic programs • Pastoral Ministry major for United Methodist studentsMaster of Divinity
Pastoral Care and Counseling major
(with emphasis on congregational care, chaplaincy, and healing)
The Pastoral Care and Counseling major educates students for this ministry from an Anabaptist-Mennonite perspective that values the physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being of the individual; contributes to mutual care and discipling in the Christian community; and supports students’ calls to ministry and service in the world. It prepares students for the specialized ministries of pastoral care in congregations, faith-based agencies, and chaplaincy. This concentration includes courses and supervised practice that are essential to the process of certification in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC) and the Canadian Association for Spiritual Care. Studies in this concentration are necessary for people interested in membership in the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE).
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Psalms or Job and Wisdom........................................................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Psalms or Job and Wisdom........................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Human Sexuality and Christian Ethics....................................................................3
Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Pastoral Care and Counseling major 19Major requirements .......................................................................................21
••
Family Systems and Pastoral Care............................................................................2
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Pastoral Counseling and Theology ..........................................................................2
••
Pastoral Counseling Practicum: Advanced Theory and Practice............................4
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
••
Religious and Psychological Assessment..................................................................2
••
Spiritual Guidance Practicum ..................................................................................4
••
Spirituality, Pastoral Care, and Healing...................................................................2
Other electives................................................................................................8
20 Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Pastoral Care and Counseling major
Master of Divinity
Christian Faith Formation major
The Christian Faith Formation major prepares leaders to strengthen the capacities of adults, youth, and children to respond to God’s saving love and grace and to nurture responses of faith in others. It reflects an Anabaptist emphasis on the congregation and the family as privileged spaces for developing Christian faith and character. Students may minister in congregational settings or retreat settings, schools, faith-based community centers and organizations, and retirement communities. Courses in biblical studies, theology, history, and ethics examine ways in which personal faith, the church, and cultural context shape Christian vocation and identity over a lifetime. Careful theological reflections will examine how cultures found inside and outside of North America create pressures and opportunities for claiming Christian identity and living as disciples of Jesus Christ.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John.......................................................................................... 3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
Church and Ministry
••
Teaching the Bible in the Congregation....................................................................3
Ethics
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making, Thinking Ethically,
Seminar in Theology: Baptism, or History of Christian Spirituality....................3
Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Christian Faith Formation major 21
Major requirements ......................................................................................16
••
Christian Ritual in Worship......................................................................................2
••
Cultural Hermeneutics or Understanding the Church’s Contexts..........................3
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Two Faith Formation and Spirituality courses.........................................................4
Other electives..............................................................................................13
22 Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Christian Faith Formation major
Master of Divinity
Christian Leadership major
The Christian Leadership major prepares students for missional leadership in church organizations and faith-based ministry settings. Studies focus on missional leadership grounded in the biblical promise and reality of shalom. Through elective courses available through AMBS and the Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education (SCUPE), students may focus their studies in areas such as creation care, urban ministry, or social justice work.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John.......................................................................................... 3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old Testament or New Testament exegesis course..................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Ethics for organizations.............................................................................................3
Major requirements ......................................................................................15
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
Cultural Hermeneutics or Understanding the Church’s Context...........................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Leading Transformational Change...........................................................................3
Other electives..............................................................................................14
Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Christian Leadership major 23
Master of Divinity
Theological Studies major
The Theological Studies major has three areas of focus: biblical studies; history, theology and ethics; and peace studies. Preparation for ministry in the context of the church (including congregational, teaching in religious schools, and faith-based administrative ministries) is the primary purpose of this major. It allows flexibility for students, in consultation with their advisers, to tailor their learning needs with their past experience and vocational goals. Students studying in this major may exercise the option of writing a thesis.
Theological Studies major
Biblical Studies
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Biblical studies and other degree requirements..........................................29
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets.......................................................................................3
••
Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels............................................................................3
••
Old Testament exegesis course..................................................................................3
••
New Testament exegesis course................................................................................3
••
Biblical Studies Seminar............................................................................................3
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
A pedagogy course ....................................................................................................2
Other electives..............................................................................................15
24 Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Theological Studies major
Theological Studies major
History, Theology, and Ethics
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
Church history elective..............................................................................................3
••
Ethics elective.............................................................................................................3
Major requirements.......................................................................................15
••
Any courses from the History, Theology, and Ethics catalog listings (pp. ??)
Other electives..............................................................................................14
Theological Studies major
Peace Studies
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements...........................................................................11
••
Biblical Foundations of Peace and Justice.................................................................3
••
Education for Peace and Justice.................................................................................2
••
Old or New Testament book study or Thematic study............................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study or Thematic study............................................3
Major requirements.......................................................................................15
••
Any course from approved Peace Studies list (p. ??)
Other electives..............................................................................................18
Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Theological Studies major 25
Master of Arts
in Christian Formation (MACF)
Educational goals
Graduates with an MACF will:
1.
Articulate or otherwise demonstrate knowledge of the biblical, historical,
and theological disciplines that undergird their ministry of leadership.
2.
Reflect critically, contextually, and constructively on the theological content and practices of their specialized ministries.
3.
Demonstrate the ability to locate, evaluate, and use information and resources effectively.
4.
Exercise competent leadership through designing, implementing, and assessing ministry experiences in their specialized ministries.
5.
Demonstrate skills for equipping, training, and empowering leaders for specialized ministries.
6.
Assess their own growth toward spiritual and personal maturity.
7.
Clarify and develop a ministerial identity.
Purpose
The MACF is a professional degree whose purpose is to educate and equip students for leadership in Christian formation ministries of the church. AMBS provides a context, a process, and tools for students to study and engage the ministries of personal and congregational formation. The degree program does not prepare them to serve as lead or solo pastors.
Design
The MACF is a 60-credit-hour degree with two concentrations: Christian Spirituality and Public Ministries (Teaching and Worship). Students participate in the Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective course at the beginning of their studies. A supervised practicum is required in both concentrations.
Advancement to candidacy
Students applying to the MACF program are admitted to the program on admis­sion to AMBS. Upon completion of Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP) and the petition process, advancement to candidacy for the MACF degree
in one of the two concentrations is upon approval of the faculty based on
recommendations of the student’s adviser, LEAP faculty leader, and MA director.
26 Academic programs • Master of Arts in Christian Formation
Final project
Students in the MACF program will complete a final project that 1) is approved by the student’s adviser and the MA director at the beginning of the student’s second year of study (or equivalent); 2) utilizes knowledge gained from courses required in the degree program and other readings designated by the Church and Ministry department; 3) develops a ministry program appropriate to the student’s preparation that could be implemented in a particular ministry setting; 4) provides commentary on the biblical, theological, and historical assumptions that undergird the program’s structure and content; 5) provides a progress report on the program’s implementation; and 6) provides the student’s assessment of what she or he has learned about leadership through the program’s development process. The written project report will be presented to the student’s adviser and one other faculty member in an oral interview. Students must successfully complete the project and the interview in order to graduate.
Academic programs • Master of Arts in Christian Formation 27
Master of Arts in Christian Formation
Christian Spirituality concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Formation..................................................................................................2
Course description on p. 119
••
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective......................................................2
Bible................................................................................................................12
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Biblical Spirituality or book study of a Gospel........................................................3
••
Psalms.........................................................................................................................3
••
Elective.......................................................................................................................3
History, Theology, and Ethics.......................................................................12
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 2.................................................................................................3
••
History of Christian Spirituality..............................................................................3
Church and Ministry......................................................................................14
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
Christian Formation in the Congregation................................................................2
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
Courses in concentration................................................................................12
••
Spiritual Guidance Practicum...................................................................................4
••
Spiritual Practices courses.........................................................................................3
••
Faith Formation Seminar...........................................................................................2
••
Three hours from among the following:
Art in Worship....................................................................................................................3
Christian Ritual in Worship (+ a one-credit-hour project).............................................3
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making......................................................3
Creation Care: Theology, Ethics and Spirituality............................................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................8
28 Academic programs • Master of Arts in Christian Formation • Christian Spirituality concentration
Master of Arts in Christian Formation
Public Ministries concentration (Teaching and Worship)
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Formation..................................................................................................2
Course description on p. 119
••
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective......................................................2
Bible................................................................................................................12
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Psalms or Old Testament book study........................................................................3
••
Biblical Spirituality or book study of a Gospel........................................................3
••
Elective.......................................................................................................................3
History, Theology, and Ethics.......................................................................12
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 1................................................................................................ 3
••
Christian Theology 2.................................................................................................3
••
History of Christian Spirituality..............................................................................3
Church and Ministry......................................................................................14
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
Christian Formation in the Congregation................................................................2
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
Courses in concentration................................................................................12
••
CHM Practica......................................................................................................... 4
••
Faith Formation Seminar....................................................................................... 2
••
Teaching the Bible in the Congregation................................................................ 3
••
Three hours from among the following
••
Art in Worship ....................................................................................................... 3
Biblical Storytelling ........................................................................................................ 3
Christian Ritual in Worship (+ a one-credit-hour project) ......................................... 3
Education for Peace and Justice (+ a one-credit-hour project) ..................................... 3
Performing the Faith ...................................................................................................... 3
General Electives.............................................................................................8
Academic programs • Master of Arts in Christian Formation • Public Ministries concentration (Teaching and Worship) 29
Master of Arts: Peace Studies (MAPS)
Educational goals
Graduates with a MAPS will:
1.
Articulate and explain the biblical and theological foundations
of peace and justice.
2.
Converse persuasively and sensitively about Anabaptist-Mennonite
approaches to peace and justice issues.
3.
Demonstrate a commitment to spiritual growth that sustains peace-
and justice-making.
4.
Demonstrate growth toward faithful and competent responses to conflict.
5.
Use the resources of social science and history to help analyze peace and justice issues.
6.
Demonstrate the ability to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively.
Purpose
The MAPS is an academic degree program that provides the environment for a deepening understanding of and commitment to the biblical vision of peace and justice and its embodiment in the world. The program is grounded in the assumption that Christ calls us to become part of a new community whose mission is to partici­pate in God’s reconciling work throughout the world. The MAPS program prepares students for peace and justice ministries in local and global settings.
Design
The MAPS Primary Program emphasizes the biblical, theological, ethical, and historical aspects of peace and justice studies that reflect AMBS’s Anabaptist, Mennonite, and biblical character. Three concentrations draw on the resources of regional schools, integrating study with specific areas of ministry: Conflict Transformation, Community Development and International Development Administration. AMBS works in partnership with the following institutions to offer these concentrations:
•
Conflict Transformation: Goshen College, Goshen, Ind.
•
Community Development: Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral
Education (SCUPE)
•
International Development Administration: Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Mich. (Students pay Andrews University tuition and fees; AMBS financial aid does not apply).
30 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies
Advancement to candidacy
Students applying to the MAPS program will be admitted to the program on admission to AMBS. Upon completion of the MA Symposium and petition process, advancement to candidacy for the MAPS degree will be on approval of the faculty, based on recommendations of the student’s adviser, the MA Symposium leader,
and the MA director.
MAPS Integrative Seminar and comprehensive interview
A six-hour integrative seminar, which includes a supervised practicum, is required of all MAPS students during their final year of study.
In the MAPS Integrative Seminar students will reflect on and evaluate their practicum work integrating this experience with their other peace and justice studies. During the second semester, MAPS students will identify an experience or theme emerging from the practicum that provides the basis of a paper demonstrating their abilities to synthesize their ministry and their thinking on peace and justice. The paper will serve as the basis for the MAPS comprehensive interview with the student’s adviser and the faculty member who leads the MAPS Integrative Seminar. MAPS students must satisfactorily complete the comprehensive interview to be eligible for graduation.
Thesis option
Students with demonstrated ability to do advanced work and who wish to write a thesis may consult with their adviser and the MA director. If they meet the criteria for writing a thesis, they may petition for approval to do so. If a student writes a thesis, a thesis presentation and defense will be required. (More information is available in the MA Student Manual.) Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies 31
Master of Arts: Peace Studies
Primary program
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium.........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
2 Thinking Ethically is required unless equivalent background can be demonstrated. If a student can demonstrate such, another theological or social ethics course may be substituted.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................33
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-Making.............................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Peace and justice elective with anti-oppression analysis
(e.g., Economic Justice, Church and Race, or Gender and Justice)...........................3
••
Social Theory for Christian Peacemakers................................................................3
••
Peace and Justice elective...........................................................................................3
32 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • Primary program
Electives in Peace Studies..............................................................................9
The courses listed below are approved as “Electives in Peace Studies.” Courses other than those listed also may be approved if course requirements are tailored to meet peace and justice studies interests and if they are approved by the director of peace and justice studies and the student’s adviser. Six hours of thesis work may fulfill three credit hours of peace studies elective hours and three hours of general electives.
••
Biblical Perspectives on Atonement (BIB654)..........................................................3
••
Church and Race (HTE649).......................................................................................3
••
Church and Society (HTE561, cross listed with CHM559).....................................3
••
Creation Care: Theology, Ethics, and Spirituality (HTE531)..................................3
••
Cultural Hermeneutics (CHM610)...........................................................................3
••
Economic Justice and Christian Conscience (HTE641)............................................3
••
Education for Peace and Justice (CHM542)..............................................................2
••
International Politics in Christian Perspective (HTE643).......................................3
••
John H. Yoder’s Theological Legacy (HTE633)........................................................3
••
Peace Colloquium (HTE535) (up to 3 hrs total).......................................................1
••
Seminar in Ethics (HTE654).....................................................................................3
••
Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education courses (SCUPE)
••
Theology and Ethics of the Gospels (BIB642)..........................................................3
••
Theology in Latin American Perspective (HTE659)................................................3
••
The Trail of Death: A Pilgrimage of Remembrance
Lament and Transformation (HTE564 or CHM518)...............................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................7
Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • Primary program 33
Master of Arts: Peace Studies
Community Development concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium.........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
2 Thinking Ethically is required; however if equivalent background can be demonstrated, another theological or social ethics course may be substituted.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................33
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making.............................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Peace and justice elective with anti-oppression analysis
(e.g., Economic Justice, Church and Race, or Gender and Justice)...........................3
••
Social Theory for Christian Peacemakers................................................................3
••
Peace and Justice elective...........................................................................................3
Courses in concentration from among the following through SCUPE..........9
Contact registrar for course descriptions.
Choose 9 hours from the following
••
Community Organizing and Direct Action.............................................................3
••
Diversity and Equity..................................................................................................3
••
Foundations of Social Justice.....................................................................................3
••
Historical Perspectives of Community Development..............................................3
••
Principles and Processes of Community Development...........................................3
34 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • Community Development concentration
Electives in Peace Studies..............................................................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................4
Master of Arts: Peace Studies
Conflict Transformation concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium.........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
2 Thinking Ethically is required; however if equivalent background can be demonstrated, another theological or social ethics course may be substituted.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................33
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making.............................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Peace and justice elective with anti-oppression analysis
(e.g., Economic Justice, Church and Race, or Gender and Justice)...........................3
••
Social Theory for Christian Peacemakers................................................................3
••
Peace and Justice elective...........................................................................................3
Courses in concentration from Goshen College.............................................9
Choose 9 hours from the following
••
PJCS 325 (3cr) Mediation: Process, Skills, Theory
••
PJCS 332 (3cr) Religion, Conflict and Peace
••
PJCS 347 (3cr) Restorative Justice
Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • Conflict Transformation concentration 35
••
PJCS 350 (3cr) Dynamics/Theology of Reconciliation
••
PJCS 426 (3cr) Conflict-healthy Groups
Electives in Peace Studies..............................................................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................4
Master of Arts: Peace Studies
International Development Administration concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium.........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
2 Thinking Ethically is required; however if equivalent background can be demonstrated, another theological or social ethics course may be substituted.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................33
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making.............................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Peace and justice elective with anti-oppression analysis
(e.g., Economic Justice, Church and Race, or Gender and Justice)...........................3
••
Peace and Justice elective...........................................................................................3
••
Social Theory for Christian Peacemakers................................................................3
36 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • International Development Administration concentration
Concentration requirements at Andrews University......................................9
See AMBS registrar
Electives in Peace Studies..............................................................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................4
Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • International Development Administration concentration 37
Master of Arts:
Theological Studies (MATS)
Educational goals
Graduates with a MATS will:
1.
Demonstrate that they have a focused knowledge in a specific discipline
(i.e., church history, biblical studies, or theology/ethics) with some
exposure or knowledge of the others.
2.
Demonstrate the ability to interact critically with the major issues
of the discipline.
3.
Demonstrate competency in using appropriate research tools.
4.
Articulate the significance of their discipline of biblical studies, theology
and ethics, and/or church history for the mission of the church in the
world, and communicate that significance in some public setting.
5.
Articulate how they are integrating their intellectual and spiritual life
—how they are understanding and loving God more truly.
6.
Engage effectively with people of different theological and ethical perspectives.
7.
Demonstrate the ability to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively.
Purpose
The MATS program is an academic degree program that provides graduate educa­tion in several theological disciplines. The concentrations within the program are designed for people who desire a degree in theological studies as a supplement to their professional training; for those who want to enrich their participation in the life and mission of the church; and for students preparing for doctoral studies in a theological discipline.
Design
The MATS is a 60-credit-hour degree with three concentrations: Biblical Studies, Church History, and Theology and Ethics. Students participate in the MA Symposium at the start of their studies.
38 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Theological Studies
Advancement to candidacy
Students applying to the MATS program are admitted to the program on admission to AMBS. Upon completion of the MA Symposium and petition process, advancement to candidacy for the MATS degree in one of the three concentrations will be upon approval of the faculty based on recommendations of the student’s adviser, the MA Symposium leader, and the MA director.
Comprehensive examination and interview
Students in the MATS program normally register for and write a comprehensive examination in the spring semester of their final year of study. The written exam consists of questions prepared by faculty in the area of concentration, designed to test the student’s comprehensive knowledge of that area of theological study. Following completion of the exam, the student participates in an interview with the student’s adviser and one other faculty member. Students must successfully complete the exam process to graduate. (More information is available in the
MA Student Manual.)
Thesis option
Most students in the MATS program are expected to complete a comprehensive exam. Students with demonstrated ability to do advanced work and who wish to write a thesis may consult with their adviser and the MA director. If they meet the criteria for writing a thesis, they may petition for approval to do so. If a student writes a thesis, a thesis presentation and defense will be required. (More information is available in the MA Student Manual.)
Academic programs • Master of Arts:Theological Studies 39
Master of Arts: Theological Studies
Biblical Studies concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................9
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Two electives...............................................................................................................6
Church and Ministry........................................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
One elective................................................................................................................3
Courses in concentration...............................................................................30
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets.......................................................................................3
••
Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels............................................................................3
••
Old Testament exegesis course..................................................................................3
••
New Testament exegesis course................................................................................3
••
Seminar in Biblical Studies.......................................................................................3
••
Old Testament THeology...........................................................................................3
••
A biblical theology elective........................................................................................3
General Electives...........................................................................................13
40 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Theological Studies • Biblical Studies concentration
Master of Arts: Theological Studies
Church History concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Two Bible electives.....................................................................................................6
(Canon and Community highly recommended for this concentration)
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Theology elective.......................................................................................................3
••
Ethics elective ............................................................................................................3
Church and Ministry........................................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
One elective................................................................................................................3
Courses in concentration...............................................................................27
Course descriptions on pp. 84–87
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Christian History 1 or Christian History 2.............................................................3
••
Church History Survey course.................................................................................3
••
Six Church History electives ..................................................................................18
(Two courses with clear historical emphases may be chosen from other disciplines; e.g., Old Testament Theology)
General Electives...........................................................................................13
Academic programs • Master of Arts: Theological Studies • Church History concentration 41
Master of Arts: Theological Studies
Theology and Ethics concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................9
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Three electives............................................................................................................9
(Reading the Bible recommended for this concentration)
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 84–87
••
One church history survey elective..........................................................................3
••
One church history elective......................................................................................3
Church and Ministry........................................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
One elective................................................................................................................3
Courses in concentration...............................................................................24
Course descriptions on pp. 84–91
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 2.................................................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically.....................................................................................................3
••
Three Theology and Ethics electives ........................................................................9
(One course with clear theological emphases may be chosen from another discipline; e.g., biblical theology and biblical ethics courses)
General Electives...........................................................................................13
42 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Theological Studies • Theology and Ethics concentration
Dual-degree programs
AMBS offers two dual-degree programs in cooperation with Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Mich., which combine the Master of Social Work with an AMBS degree. Students apply both to AMBS and to Andrews and must meet the expectations of each school’s program. Diplomas are granted by both schools. The dual degrees are organized to reduce the time required to complete both degrees by one academic year.
The Andrews University MSW degree is approved by the Council of Social Work Education. The dual-degree programs have been approved by AMBS’s two accredit­ing agencies.
Purpose of the dual-degree programs
The dual Master of Divinity and Master of Social Work (MSW) degrees prepare graduates for bivocational congregational ministry or for employment in faith-based agencies. The dual Master of Arts: Peace Studies and Master of Social Work degrees open up a wider range of employment for MAPS graduates by providing a biblical, theological, and ethical training base for the social work vocation. The MSW is the best masters-level degree to attain certification for counseling with third-party payment.
The purposes of the dual MDiv and MSW degrees are:
•
To provide an option for bivocational ministry preparation.
•
To provide a psychological, social, and clinical basis of training that will be recognized for third-party funding for social work and counseling employment.
•
To combine congregational ministerial leadership with local social service ministry, either in counseling or community administration and development.
The purposes of the dual MAPS and MSW degrees are:
•
To prepare MAPS graduates more broadly so that they will have leadership options for employment upon graduation.
•
To attract college graduates with a BSW who would enjoy the advantage of Advanced Standing at Andrews University, so that both degrees can be earned
in three years.
•
To serve the church by preparing graduates for social service ministries, such as in relief and development work, with strong biblical, theological, and ethical foundations.
44 Academic programs • Dual-degree programs
Admission to Andrews University
AMBS students interested in the dual-degree program must take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) for admission to Andrews University. They should apply for admis­sion to Andrews University during the first semester of their first year at AMBS and no later than early March of the year in which they wish to begin fall courses.
For details about the MSW program, see www.andrews.edu/cas/socialwork or contact the Social Work Department at Andrews University at 269.471.6196. For information regarding admission to Andrews University, contact the admissions office at 800.253.2874. The online application to Andrews University is found through the Social Work Department’s website: www.andrews.edu/cas/socialwork.
MDiv-MSW and MAPS-MSW field education/placement requirements
Andrews’ two-year program and Advanced Standing
The dual-degree programs for the MDiv-MSW use a joint field placement to satisfy the internship requirements.
The Andrews MSW program requires nine semester hours in field placements for their two year program: 400 hours of direct field work in Year 1 (Generalist Field Experience) for four credit hours, 500 hours in Year 2 (Advanced Field Experience) for five credit hours, and four Field Seminar courses for a total of two credit hours.
The AMBS MDiv/MSW program requires a joint field placement for dual-degree students with both ministerial and social work supervision. Students without advanced standing normally use the same field experience for Ministry in Church and World at AMBS and the Generalist Field Experience (Year 1) for the Andrews MSW field requirements.
The AMBS MAPS/MSW program requires a joint field placement for students with both peace theology and social work supervision. Students without advanced standing use the same field experience for the MAPS Integrative Seminar (which includes a practicum) at AMBS and the Generalist Field Experience (Year 1) of the Andrews MSW field requirements.
Academic programs • Dual-degree programs 45
AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work
Design
1.
By combining electives and field education requirements, the AMBS MDiv and Andrews University MSW programs can be earned in four years, rather than five, as would be the case if the programs were taken separately. Students already holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree may qualify for advanced standing
in the Andrews program so the MDiv and MSW degrees could be earned in
less time.
2.
Normally students concentrate on AMBS courses during the first year and then take MSW and AMBS courses over the next three years.
3.
Students are eligible for financial aid from AMBS based on combined hours at both schools. Financial aid is independently assessed and awarded at each institution. High GRE test scores may qualify students for significant tuition assistance from Andrews University.
4.
The AMBS director of missional leadership development works cooperatively with the Andrews MSW director of field education to find field placements that fulfill the expected learning requirements of both programs.
5.
Six semester hours of supervised AMBS field education are normally integrated with the four semester hours of Generalist Field Experience at Andrews. AMBS Ministry in Church and World placements and Andrews Generalist Field Experience are fulfilled simultaneously in the same ministry placement. AMBS Supervised Ministry Experience placements and Andrews Advanced Field Experience are fulfilled simultaneously in the same placement for students who do not qualify for advanced standing at Andrews. Students have both an MSW supervisor and a ministerial supervisor for all joint placement. Four semesters of field seminars are also required at Andrews. The total number of joint field placement credits is 17 for the AMBS MDiv Program (including Field Experience Seminar) and 11 for the MSW program.
6.
The policies of each institution’s field education programs apply for each student and placement.
7.
Four hours of electives in the MDiv program may be taken at AMBS or at Andrews.
8.
Students must complete the requirements of both programs to receive diplomas from both AMBS and Andrews University.
46 Academic programs • AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work
Policies guiding joint field placements
Field placements for students in the dual-degree program are to be made with these factors in mind:
•
A placement must enable the student to have both a qualified MSW supervisor and a qualified ministry supervisor.
•
A placement must enable the student to develop necessary professional social work and ministerial skills.
•
A placement must be compatible with the student’s geographical location whenever possible.
•
The Andrews MSW director of field education and the AMBS director of missional leadership development seek to locate a placement most suitable for the student.
AMBS Master of Divinity and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Four years
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth ..........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old or New Testament exegesis or thematic study..................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Theology or Ethics elective........................................................................................3
Academic programs • AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work 47
Major requirements.......................................................................................14
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Human Sexuality and Christian Ethics....................................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care or approved SCUPE offering........................................2
••
Pastoral Counseling and Theology or
Cultural Hermeneutics or approved SCUPE offering..............................................3
Andrews University credits transferred to AMBS........................................11
••
MSW Generalist Field Experience (400 hours direct field work)............................4
••
MSW Advanced Field Experience (500 hours direct field work).............................5
••
Four Field Seminars at Andrews............................................................................. 2
General electives (at either AMBS or Andrews)...........................................9
48 Academic programs • AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work
AMBS Master of Divinity and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Advanced Standing
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth ..........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old or New Testament exegesis or thematic study..................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Theology or Ethics elective........................................................................................3
Major requirements.......................................................................................14
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Human Sexuality and Christian Ethics....................................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care or approved SCUPE offering........................................2
••
Pastoral Counseling and Theology or
Cultural Hermeneutics or approved SCUPE offering..............................................3
Andrews University credits transferred to AMBS.........................................7
••
Advanced Standing Field Experience .......................................................................6
••
Two Field Seminars at Andrews.............................................................................. 1
General electives (at either AMBS or Andrews)...........................................8
Academic programs • AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work 49
Degree program Subhead
Running footer - Subhead
AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Design
1. By combining electives and field education requirements, the AMBS MAPS and
Andrews University MSW programs can be earned in three years, rather than
four, as would be the case if the programs were taken separately.
2. Normally students concentrate on AMBS courses during the first year and then
take MSW and AMBS courses over the next two years.
3. Students are eligible for financial aid from AMBS based on combined hours
at both schools. Financial aid is independently assessed and awarded at each
institution. High GRE test scores may qualify students for significant tuition
assistance from Andrews University.
4. The MAPS Integrative Seminar faculty leader at AMBS or the director of
missional leadership development at AMBS works cooperatively with the
Andrews MSW director of field education to find field placements that fulfill the
expected learning requirements of both programs.
5. Six semester hours of MAPS Integrative Seminar at AMBS, with a supervised
practicum, are normally taken in conjunction with four semester hours of
Generalist Field Experience at Andrews for the MSW. Students have both an
MSW supervisor at Andrews and a peace theology and praxis supervisor at
AMBS for this joint placement. Additionally, five semester hours of Advanced
Field Experience are taken through Andrews, fulfilling joint credit requirements
with AMBS. Four semesters of Field Seminar are also required at Andrews. The
total number of joint field placement credits is 17 for the AMBS MAPS program
(including Field Seminars) and 11 for the MSW program.
6. The policies of each institution’s field placement programs apply for each student
and placement.
7. Four credit hours of elective courses at Andrews or AMBS are used to complete
the MAPS requirements.
8. Students must complete the requirements of both programs to receive diplomas
from both AMBS and Andrews University.
50 Academic programs • AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and Andrews University Master of Social Work
AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course description on p. 68
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
••
Anabaptist History and Theology2.......................................................................... 3
2 Thinking Ethically and Anabaptist History and Theology are required unless equivalent background can be demonstrated. If a student can demonstrate this, other courses may be substituted, subject to the adviser’s approval.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................15
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
AMBS Peace Studies electives.....................................................................13
List of electives on p. 33. Directory for course descriptions on p. 128.
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................8
Course descriptions on pp. 120–121
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
Andrews University credits transferred to AMBS........................................11
••
Generalist Field Experience (400 hours direct field work).......................................4
••
Advanced Field Experience (500 hours direct field work)........................................5
••
Four Field Seminars at Andrews...............................................................................2
General Electives at either Andrews or AMBS.............................................4
Academic programs • AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies andAndrews University Master of Social Work 51
AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Advanced Standing
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on p. 68
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
••
Anabaptist History and Theology2.......................................................................... 3
2 Thinking Ethically and Anabaptist History and Theology are required unless equivalent background can be demonstrated. If a student can demonstrate this, other courses may be substituted, subject to the adviser’s approval.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................15
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
AMBS Peace Studies electives.....................................................................13
List of electives on p. 33. Directory for course descriptions on p. 128.
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................8
Course descriptions on pp. 120–121
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
Andrews University credits transferred to AMBS.........................................7
••
Advanced Standing Field Experience (500 hours direct field work)........................6
••
Two Field Seminars at Andrews................................................................................1
52 Academic programs • AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies andAndrews University Master of Social Work
Certificate programs
Purpose
AMBS certificate and programs are designed to provide professionals, congregational leaders, and bivocational pastors with a foundation in theological and biblical study, spiritual enrichment, and fuller integration of Christian faith in their work and ministry. The certificates do not meet the gainful employment criteria set by the U.S. Department of Education. In addition to three certificates, a concentration in peace studies is available to Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary students.
Design of certificate programs
A general Certificate in Theological Studies is available, along with two themed Certificates that support different expressions of ministry. Each certificate requires 27 credit hours. The general Certificate in Theological Studies could be completed in one year with full-time study, but also may be completed with part-time study over several years.
Completing a Certificate in Christian Spiritual Formation or a Certification in Pastoral Theology for Financial Professionals will involve part-time study over several years, because required courses are not always offered in the same year. For either of these certificates, all courses must be taken through AMBS, either on campus or in arranged off-campus offerings.
Certificate in Theological Studies
The Certificate in Theological Studies allows students to select courses for a special interest or ministry. People who seek basic theological training to enhance their participation in their congregation or profession or who desire opportunities for spiritual formation can develop a plan of study tailored to their interests.
At least nine credit hours must be taken either on the Elkhart campus or at AMBS–Kansas Center, which may include weekly face-to-face, weekend, hybrid, interterm, or summer sessions. Some credit from online courses may be applied toward this certificate. Up to twelve credit hours may be transferred from other accredited seminaries.
The following foundational courses are recommended, but not required, for students pursuing the Certificate in Theological Studies: Reading the Bible, one or both of the
54 Academic programs • Certificate programs
biblical languages or Introduction to Bible Study Tools, Thinking Ethically, Chris­tian Theology 1 and 2, God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness, and Anabaptist History and Theology.
Certificate in Christian Spiritual Formation
This certificate develops gifts and skills of leaders for nurturing Christian spiritual formation in the activities, practices, and programs of congregational life.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................27
Required courses......................................................................................18–19
••
Biblical Spirituality....................................................................................................3
••
Christian Formation in the Congregation................................................................2
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation*.....................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care*.......................................................................................2
••
Spiritual Guidance Practicum**................................................................................4
••
Spiritual Practices*.................................................................................................1–2
Recommended courses
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making.............................................3
••
Faith Formation and Spirituality of Youth and Young Adults or another faith formation and spirituality course.............................................................................2
••
History of Christian Spirituality..............................................................................3
••
Psalms.........................................................................................................................3
••
Spiritual Practices..................................................................................................1–2
General electives.........................................................................................8–9
*Courses required before taking the Spiritual Guidance Practicum.
**The Spiritual Guidance Practicum requires students to complete the three courses noted above, to be active in their congregations, and to meet regularly with their
spiritual directors.
Academic programs • Certificate programs 55
Certificate in Pastoral Theology for Financial Professionals
Christian financial counselors will benefit from this program of study, which brings theological, pastoral, and ethical concerns to bear on the practices of financial counseling.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................27
Required courses...........................................................................................23
••
Luke-Acts: Mission Perspectives...............................................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
••
Thinking Ethically.....................................................................................................3
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Family Systems and Pastoral Care............................................................................2
••
Economic Justice and Christian Conscience.............................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
Pastoral Counseling Practicum.................................................................................4
Electives...........................................................................................................4
••
Spiritual practices courses or other courses relevant for developing
competencies as a financial professional or one independent study
related to money, theology, or ethics........................................................................4
Peace studies concentration for Garrett-Evangelical students
MDiv students at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary may complete a concentration in peace studies that consists of five AMBS peace and justice studies courses, or 15 credit hours. Courses will be offered in a mix of online, intensive and regular semester courses on the AMBS campus in Elkhart, Ind. Students completing the concentration will have it reflected on their Garrett-Evangelical transcripts. More information about specific courses and the requirements that they meet can be found online at www.ambs.edu/academics/peace-studies-concentration-for-Garrett-Evangelical-students.cfm.
56 Academic programs • Certificate programs
AMBS–KANSAS CENTER
AMBS–Kansas Center
AMBS offers courses at AMBS–Kansas Center in North Newton, Kan. AMBS–Kansas Center is an extension site of and is owned by Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, based in Elkhart, Ind., and is accountable to the AMBS board. It provides graduate-level courses in central Kansas and other Mennonite centers in the Great Plains region.
Students enrolled in the MDiv degree are MDiv Connect students who may take some courses face-to-face through AMBS–Kansas Center rather than online; residency requirements apply. MA students may take courses toward their degree programs through AMBS–Kansas Center, but will need to complete their degrees on the Elkhart campus. A minimum of 27 hours in either program must be taken at AMBS in Elkhart, Ind., through on-campus or hybrid course offerings.
Degree programs
AMBS–Kansas Center students may pursue any of the degree programs offered by AMBS. A list of courses for each term is available from the office and at www.ambs.edu/KansasCenter.
Courses
AMBS–Kansas Center offers one course each term—fall, interterm, spring and summer. Some of these courses are offered for graduate credit by Bethel College, and KIPCOR, both in North Newton, Kan.
Continuing education
Pastors and other church leaders are encouraged to take AMBS–Kansas Center courses for continuing education. Auditors and for-credit students are welcome in most classes.
Library resources
AMBS–Kansas Center students have access to four libraries:
•
AMBS’s collection of online books and journals.
•
The AMBS library in Elkhart, Ind. Books can be mailed to students.
•
The Conference Resource Library in North Newton, Kan., at 2517 Main.
58 AMBS–Kansas CenterAdmission, tuition, and financial aid
Policies for admission, tuition, and financial aid for students at AMBS–Kansas Center are the same as they are for students on the Elkhart campus. Please visit the AMBS website, www.ambs.edu/admissions/index.cfm, and the AMBS Policies and Procedures Manual at AMBS Central for details.
Coordinator
Katherine Goerzen, kccoordinator@ambs.edu
Faculty
Lois Barrett, Ph.D � Professor of Theology and Anabaptist Studies
Keith Harder, D.Min. � Core Adjunct Faculty (Church and Ministry)
Patricia Shelly, Ph.D. � Core Adjunct Faculty (Bible)
Jerry Truex, Ph.D. � Core Adjunct Faculty (Bible)
Sessional faculty, 2014–15
•
Gary Flory, J.D., teaching Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation
•
Justin Heinzekehr, ABD, teaching Thinking Ethically
•
S. Roy Kaufman, MDiv, teaching Rural Ministry
•
Douglas Miller, Ph.D., leading Jerusalem Seminar
•
Patty Shelly, Ph.D., leading Jerusalem Seminar
•
Kirsten Zerger, J.D., teaching Conflict, Conciliation, and Communication
AMBS–Kansas Center 59AMBS–Kansas Center facilities
22517 N Main St., North Newton, KS 67117
•
Administrative office
•
Conference Resource Library
(Western District and South Central Mennonite Conferences)
AMBS Library, Elkhart, Indiana
Library resources on the AMBS campus are available to AMBS–Kansas Center students through:
•
Online resources (e.g., ATLA database, online books, journals)
•
Books sent by mail
Contact information
More information on AMBS–Kansas Center is available from Katherine Goerzen, AMBS–Kansas Center coordinator, or Brenna Harker, admissions counselor in the AMBS admissions office.
Mailing address � P.O. Box 306, North Newton, KS 67117
Street address � 2505 North Main Street, North Newton, Kan.
Email � kccoordinator@ambs.edu or
bharker@ambs.edu
Phone � 316.283.7098
Website � www.ambs.edu/kansascenter
60 AMBS–Kansas Center
AMBS–Kansas Center Foundation Program of Study
Western District Conference and South Central Conference of Mennonite Church USA expect pastors, especially those seeking ordination, to continue learning as professionals engaged in the vocation of ministry. One way for pastors to meet minimum educational requirements is by taking a specified group of courses through AMBS and completing the Foundation Program of Study, which meets the needs of pastors and others wanting to fulfill conference requirements for ordination. These credits also could apply to an AMBS MDiv or MA program in the future. Credits for this program can be taken at AMBS–Kansas Center or through online, hybrid, and Elkhart campus courses. Audit and continuing education hours are not accepted in this Foundation Program of Study.
This Foundation Program of Study is structured around the six competencies for ordination in the Mennonite Church USA Ministerial Credential, Competencies and Education Grid. The number of credit hours listed for each category must be met in order to complete the program. Specific courses listed below are recommendations within a particular category and do not constitute a requirement or an exhaustive list. For those seeking ordination, options in this 27-hour academic requirement will be determined by the Leadership Commission in each conference for each student. Those not seeking ordination may choose courses tailored to their interests.
Total credit hours..........................................................................................27
In each category below, recommended courses are listed. However, other courses fitting the categories and approved by the adviser myay be taken in place of a recommended course.
Biblical story....................................................................................................6
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Teaching the Bible in the Congregation....................................................................3
••
What about the Bible? The Authority of Scripture for Christians.........................3
••
A Bible thematic study or book study.......................................................................3
Anabaptist-Mennonite story, theology, and convictions ..............................6
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Global Mennonite History........................................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically or any ethics elective................................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes to War, Peace, and Revolution.................................................3
Christian spirituality/discipleship....................................................................5
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
Any of the Spiritual Practices courses......................................................................1
••
History of Christian Spirituality..............................................................................3
••
Biblical Spirituality....................................................................................................3
AMBS–Kansas Center • AMBS–Kansas Center Foundation Program of Study 61Self-understanding and awareness, emotional intelligence..........................3
••
Family Systems and Pastoral Care............................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication and Conciliation.......................................................2 or 3
Contextual awareness......................................................................................3
••
Rural Ministry...........................................................................................................1
••
Understanding the Church’s Contexts......................................................................3
••
Managing Differences in Faith Communities.........................................................1
••
Jerusalem Seminar.....................................................................................................3
••
The Trail of Death: A Pilgrimage of Remembrance, Lament,
and Transformation....................................................................................................3
Leadership.......................................................................................................4
••
Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................................2
••
Understanding and Managing Congregational Conflict.........................................1
••
Leading Transformational Change...........................................................................2
••
Mennonite Polity.......................................................................................................1
••
Managing Differences in Faith Communities.........................................................1
62 AMBS–Kansas Center • ﻿COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Introduction
Courses offered by AMBS are organized into three departments and a fourth group of ministry formation and assessment courses:
•
Bible (BIB)
•
History, Theology, and Ethics (HTE)
•
Church and Ministry (CHM)
•
Ministry Formation and Assessment (INT)
Within each group, courses are designated in various categories, matching current requirements of degree programs of study. Students working with a previous program of study may need to consult with their advisers or the registrar to determine which courses will meet older requirements.
This catalog contains brief descriptions of courses offered with some regularity. Syllabi of courses taught in the previous three years are available on AMBS Central (a Moodle “course” accessible to anyone who has registered for an AMBS class). Students should note that these syllabi are from previous offerings of courses and are subject to change when the courses are next offered.
Nomenclature for courses offered at AMBS
On-campus face-to-face courses meet for the equivalent of fourteen weeks on the AMBS campus in Elkhart or at AMBS–Kansas Center. Classroom sessions have accompanying assignments outside of each class session. While these courses have online requirements, synchronous classroom learning is a central element of the course. A course ID that has only the department abbreviation and three-digit number indicates that the couse is taught only on campus.
Online courses have the equivalent of a fourteen-week duration with asynchronous learning. All course activities are mediated through an online course management system. Students may interact with professors and peers through course discussion boards, email, video chats, or other means. These courses are planned for the duration of a regular semester. If a course is taught online, the course ID will include the department abbreviation and three-digit number followed by “E” and the description will indicate it is taught online.
Hybrid courses have the equivalent of a fourte

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2014–15
Academic CatalogThe information in this catalog applies to the 2014–15 academic year. Care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information in this publication; the information is susceptible, however, to unintended error and is subject to changes or deletions. AMBS reserves the right to change programs of study, academic requirements, the academic calendar, and other matters described here without prior notice, in accordance with established procedures. This catalog is descriptive and is not to be construed as a legal contract.
This catalog is available on the AMBS website at www.ambs.edu/academics/catalog.cfm and in a limited number of print copies. The online version is the most up-to-date and contains links to facilitate easier use.Table of contents
Academic calendar overview..................................................... 2
General information.................................................................. 4
Academic programs.................................................................... 7
• Master of Divinity (MDiv).....................................10
• Master of Arts in Christian Formation (MACF)...26
• Master of Arts: Peace Studies (MAPS).................. 30
• Master of Arts: Theological Studies (MATS).........38
• Dual-degree programs.......................................... 44
• Certificate programs............................................. 54
AMBS–Kansas Center............................................................. 57
Course descriptions.................................................................. 63
• Bible (BIB)............................................................... 66
• History, Theology and Ethics (HTE)......................82
• Church and Ministry (CHM).................................98
• Ministry Formation and Assessment (INT)........118
• AMBS–Great Plains............................................124
• Peace and Justice courses.....................................128
• SCUPE..................................................................130
Admissions..............................................................................137
Academic policies and procedures..........................................143
Tuition and fees.......................................................................161
Faculty, staff, and administration..........................................165
Indexes.................................................................................... 171
• Course list index–alphabetical.............................172
• AMBS–Kansas Center index–alphabetical.........175
• Course list index–numerical................................176
• AMBS–Kansas Center index–numerical............180
• Topical index.........................................................181
• Photo index...........................................................185
2014–15 ACADEMIC CATALOG
3003 Benham Avenue
Elkhart, IN 46517
800.964.2627
www.ambs.eduAcademic calendar overview
Fall semester 2014
August 11 .............................Fall hybrid courses, including Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP) and MA Symposium, begin with online work
25–30 � Fall hybrid courses meet on campus
September 2 � Fall on-campus and online classes begin
October 13 � Canadian Thanksgiving—No classes (offices closed)
14–November 7 � Advising and course selection for Interterm and Spring
November 27–29 � U.S. Thanksgiving—No classes (offices closed)
December 12 � Final day of fall classes
Interterm 2015—Hybrid courses
December 15 � Hybrid courses begin
January 12–17 � Hybrid courses meet on campus
March 1 � Hybrid courses end
Interterm 2015—On-campus courses
January 5 � Classes begin
19 � Martin Luther King Jr. Day—No classes (offices closed)
Special activities
23 � Classes end
Pastors Week 2015
January 26 � Leadership Clinics
26–29 � Pastors Week
2 2014–15 Academic Catalog • Academic calendar overviewSpring semester 2015
February 3 � Spring on-campus and online classes begin
March 11–April 3 � Advising and course selection for Summer and Fall
April 3 � Good Friday—No classes (offices closed)
3–11 � Spring recess—No classes
May 20 � Final day of spring classes
23 � Commencement
Summer 2015—Hybrid courses
May 21 � Hybrid courses begin
June 22–26 � Hybrid courses meet on campus
July 31 � Hybrid courses end
Summer 2015—On-campus courses
June 1 � Classes begin
July 18 � End of Summer term
For the complete calendar, including all dates for payments, course changes and refunds, see the online academic calendar at www.ambs.edu/academics/Academic-Calendar.cfm. Students are accountable to know and adhere to dates as posted in the online calendar.
2014–15 Academic Catalog • Academic calendar overview 3General information
Mission statement
Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary serves the church as a learning community with an Anabaptist vision, educating followers of Jesus Christ to be leaders for God’s reconciling mission in the world.
Core values
•
Disciplined study of Scripture, theology, and ministry
•
Practices of worship, community, and Christian discipleship
•
Effective and visionary leadership for the church
•
Anabaptist theology in conversation with the wider church
•
Mission that integrates service, evangelism, and peacemaking
Vision statement
The AMBS vision statement, adopted April 2010, sets the seminary's direction during the next few years.
AMBS will become an Anabaptist learning community that makes theological education accessible to and welcoming of Christians of increasingly diverse traditions, ethnicities, and races to reflect more fully God’s purposes of unity
and justice.
Antiracism commitment
AMBS is committed to becoming an antiracist institution. One of the ways we engage this ongoing work is through an antiracism team composed of students, faculty, and staff that identifies and works to dismantle racism within the seminary community. For more information on the seminary’s antiracism work, contact Nekeisha Alexis-Baker, Intercultural Competence and Undoing Racism coordinator, at 574.296.6274 or nabaker@ambs.edu.
4 2014–15 Academic Catalog • General information
Admission policy
AMBS is committed to dismantling barriers to equality within the seminary and the communities where we live and serve. As part of this commitment, AMBS will make decisions regarding admission to study at AMBS without discrimination on the basis of age, race, religion, physical disability, national or ethnic origin, gender, and sexual orientation. See the AMBS Academic Policies and Procedures Manual and the AMBS Community Life Manual for more details about admission to AMBS degree programs and community life.
Accreditation notice
Since 1958, the degree programs of AMBS have been accredited by The Association of Theological Schools:
Accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, and the following degree programs are approved:
MDiv, MA in Christian Formation, MA (Peace Studies), MA (Theological Studies)
The Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada
10 Summit Park Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15275
USA
Telephone: 412-788-6505
Fax: 412-788-6510
Website: www.ats.edu
Since 1974, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission: www.ncahlc.org, 800.621.7440.
The date of the most recent reaccreditation by these two organizations is 2009.
Online catalog
Visit www.ambs.edu/academics/catalog.cfm for the most current version of the AMBS catalog.
2014–15 Academic Catalog • General information 5
Learn more about AMBS
Admissions � admissions@ambs.edu
Registrar � registrar@ambs.edu
Phone � 800.964.2627 (toll free) or 574.295.3726
Online
Website � www.ambs.edu
Facebook � www.facebook.com/followAMBS
Issuu � www.issuu.com/ambsreport
6 2014–15 Academic Catalog • General information
ACADEMIC PROGRAMSPrograms of study
Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary offers four graduate degrees, two dual-degree programs and three 27-credit-hour certificate programs.
Detailed worksheets with requirements for each degree program and each major or concentration are available to students on Google Drive. Questions about these workshops can be directed to the registrar’s office.
Master of Divinity (MDiv)
The Master of Divinity degree is designed to educate and form Christian women and men for ministerial leadership in a variety of ministry settings, including pastoral leadership. Majors are available in Pastoral Ministry, Pastoral Care and Counseling, Christian Faith Formation, Christian Leadership, and Theological Studies. Within the Theological Studies major, a student can focus in Biblical Studies, Theology and Ethics, or Peace Studies. In partnership with Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, an MDiv plan of study is available for United Methodist students.
Students may pursue this degree through the Master of Divinity Campus program or the Master of Divinity Connect program.
Master of Arts in Christian Formation (MACF)
The Master of Arts in Christian Formation ministry degree prepares students for leadership through concentrations in Christian Spirituality, and Public Ministries.
Master of Arts: Peace Studies (MAPS)
The Master of Arts: Peace Studies is an academic degree that prepares students for peace and justice ministries in mission, service, mediation, church, and congregational locations. In addition to the Primary Program three other concentrations are available: Community Development, Conflict Transformation, and International Development Administration.
8 Academic programs • Programs of studyMaster of Arts: Theological Studies (MATS)
The Master of Arts: Theological Studies is an academic degree that provides a basis for further academic work, supplements professional training in other fields, and prepares students for stronger participation in the life, mission, and service of the church. Concentrations are available in Biblical Studies, Church History, and Theology and Ethics.
Dual-degree programs
AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University
Master of Social Work
The dual-degree Master of Divinity and Master of Social Work (at Andrews
University, Berrien Springs, Mich.) prepares students for bivocational congregational leadership, work in faith-based agencies, certification in counseling or administra­tion, and development of community programs.
AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and Andrews University Master of Social Work
The dual-degree Master of Arts: Peace Studies and Master of Social Work (at Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Mich.) prepares students for community development in North America or other countries, or in faith-based agencies.
Certificates
Certificates offer professionals, congregational leaders, and bivocational pastors a foundation in theological and biblical study. They are offered as enrichment for people seeking deeper grounding as Christians in their current work; they do not meet requirements for gainful employment.
New programs and changes in programs of study
AMBS may add new concentrations or make changes in programs of study during the period in which this catalog is in effect. For the most up-to-date information on academic programs, see the online catalog at www.ambs.edu/academics/catalog.cfm.
Academic programs • Programs of study 9Master of Divinity
(MDiv Campus; MDiv Connect)
Educational goals
Graduates with an MDiv:
1.
Are grounded in and are continuously formed by the Bible.
2.
Engage their historical and theological traditions in the context
of the larger Christian church.
3.
Are formed by a continuing encounter with God.
4.
Demonstrate personal integrity and authority in ministry.
5.
Understand and creatively engage their ministry context.
6.
Lead the church in fulfilling its missional calling.
Purpose
The Master of Divinity curriculum prepares men and women for Christian ministe­rial leadership. It is designed to develop spiritually mature, Spirit-led leaders to care for and guide the church, school, other faith-based ministries or areas of Christian service. Majors are available in Pastoral Ministry, Pastoral Care and Counseling, Christian Faith Formation, Christian Leadership, and Theological Studies. Students in the Theological Studies major may focus in Biblical Studies, Theology and Ethics, or Peace Studies. In partnership with Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, an MDiv plan of study is available for United Methodist students.
Education for ministerial leadership involves attention to a student’s growth in theological discernment and competency in ministry, as well as the development of character, sense of call, ministerial identity and skills, spiritual depth, and commitment to service in the name of Christ.
Preparation for pastoral service in the Believers Church tradition requires more than developing a ministerial presence in specific situations or for individuals. The Master of Divinity program builds competence and confidence in students to provide leadership for the church’s mission, life, and witness, as well as leading faith-based organizations to participate in God’s reconciling mission. Ministerial leadership assists the spiritual growth of groups of believers, building them together into a “dwelling place of God in the Spirit” (Ephesians 2:22) for service in the world.
10 Academic programs • Master of Divinity The MDiv curriculum expresses and supports the AMBS Mission Statement
by emphasizing:
•
Commitment to Jesus Christ
•
Anabaptist history, theology, and vision
•
Service to the church expressed through the Anabaptist and Mennonite traditions within Christianity
•
Missional leadership development
•
Participation in God’s reconciling mission
•
Education within a faithful learning community
The curriculum focuses on the following broad practices:
•
Embodied witness to faith in Jesus Christ
•
Holistic formation (i.e., intellectual, emotional, spiritual, physical)
•
Grounding in biblical, theological, and historical studies for embodied practice of ministry
•
Theological analysis of cultural context(s) in which the local and global church
are found
•
Justice and reconciliation in all relationships, with special attention
given to those where the dynamics of race, gender, and class are present
•
Commitments to life-long reflection and learning for missional leadership practice
Studies in the MDiv program emphasize key Anabaptist commitments and values:
•
The church’s purpose as witness and herald of the good news of Jesus Christ
•
The loving and honest study of the bible to guide faithful Christian discernment
•
The centrality of peace and justice in the saving gospel message
•
The congregation as the central locus of theological discernment, worship, spiritual formation, and accountability with the larger church
•
The integrity and character of Christian discipleship essential for
Christ-like leadership
•
The shape of missional leadership in the variety of contexts where
students and graduates are called to minister
Academic programs • Master of Divinity 11Master of Divinity program design
The Master of Divinity degree requires:
•
80 credit hours of successfully completed study
•
Satisfactory completion of a degree plan of study with demonstrations of information literacy, completion of a senior ministry case study paper, senior presentation based on significant learning during the seminary experience with a faculty interview, and faculty recommendation for graduation
AMBS offers the Master of Divinity program in two expressions: MDiv Campus and MDiv Connect.
•
The MDiv Campus program consists of courses offered in face-to-face teaching formats for the duration of the program. Some courses may be taken online; some required courses will be offered in a hybrid format. Students may complete the MDiv program in three years of full-time study.
•
The MDiv Connect program allows for fifty credit hours of coursework to be done online with thirty hours of residency met through hybrid courses. Students may complete the MDiv Connect program in five and one-half years of consistent part-time study.
The 80-credit hour MDiv Campus program is designed as a three-year program including Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (orientation) course in August, fall and spring semesters, January interterm and one summer school session each year. Following this cycle of courses enables students in the the dual-degree MDiv and MSW program to earn both degrees in four years.
The 80-credit hour MDiv Connect program is designed as a five and one-half year program (with students taking an average of 14 credit hours per year) including Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (orientation) course in August; following this the student must take each year one or two online courses every fall and spring semester, a January interterm hybrid course, and a summer hybrid course. Students in the Pastoral Care and Counseling or Christian Faith Formation majors may have some required hybrid courses in August. Some programs also may require a second on-campus summer school term in one or two of the years of study.
The Master of Divinity for United Methodists is currently approved as a 80-credit hour program of study. UM students take courses totaling 15 credit hours from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary to earn a Certificate in United Methodist Studies and 65 credit hours of AMBS courses either on campus on in a hybrid format.
12 Academic programs • Master of Divinity
Courses offered through the Bible curriculum orient students to the study of Scripture by introducing them to the biblical languages, guiding them into the disciplines of Old and New Testament studies and biblical theology, and aiding them in the interpretation of Scripture. The Recommended Sequence is for those who will use the Bible actively in their teaching and praching ministry. This sequence prepares students to work with the biblical languages, interpret Scripture, and use commentaries, Bible curricular requirements can also be met through the Alternative Sequence with the approval of the student’s faculty adviser.
The History, Theology, and Ethics curriculum encourages engagement with and appropriation of Anabaptist-Mennonite thought and practice as well as other Christian traditions; it develops the ability to address contemporary issues that impact the church and society using perspectives gained through historical, theological, ethical, and biblical study.
The Church and Ministry curriculum develops theological vision and reflection for and practice in the skills of a variety of ministry arts.
Ministry Formation and Assessment
The MDiv curriculum involves careful advising, mentoring, and assessment of growth in ministry. The advising process is intended to undergird and strengthen the student’s vocational discernment, self-awareness, spiritual growth, sense of ministerial identity, and academic progress.
•
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP) is a required hybrid course that orients students to theological studies, the nature of missional leadership, the formation of the learning community, opportunities for personal assessment, and exploration of sustaining spiritual practices. Students create a formation portfolio to lodge various assessments of their academic progress and ministerial competency during their seminary studies. Assignments in the course prepare students to petition for formal admission into the MDiv program after they have completed twelve credit hours. LEAP faculty leaders complete an assessment evaluating the student’s demonstrated readiness to enter the MDiv program as part of the petition process.
•
Ministry in Church and World is a two-semester part-time supervised ministry placement. Students may be assigned to congregational, hospital, jail, or other faith-based ministry agency. Internship work averages eight to ten hours of on-site ministry per week. In addition to the work on site, students participate in a peer supervision group that explores the practical, biblical, and theological dimensions of their ministry experiences. During the second semester students
Academic programs • Master of Divinity 13
write the first draft of a ministry case study that they will complete during the Capstone Ministry Assessment Seminar. Faculty leaders of the supervision group write an assessment evaluating each student’s growth in ministry competence and abilities to use their increasing historical, theological, and biblical knowledge in the service of ministry, which is added to the student’s formation portfolio.
•
The Capstone Ministry Assessment Seminar requires students to evaluate their growing competence in ministry, their learning from coursework, and their spiritual growth over the period of their seminary studies. Peer groups led by faculty examine and refine each student’s ministry case study, review the student’s formation portfolio, and help the student prepare the oral presentation for interview. A senior ministry assessment is written by the seminar leader and is approved by examining faculty during the interview. This assessment remains in the student’s permanent file.
Admission to the Master of Divinity degree program
At the time of application to AMBS, a student indicates his or her intention to pursue the MDiv Campus or MDiv Connect option of the MDiv. Students may petition for formal admission into the MDiv program when they have successfully completed twelve credit hours of study and are in process with other courses. Transfer students may petition for admission after they have completed 30 credit hours of theological study. Admission into the Master of Divinity program requires recommendation of the Admissions and Assessment Committee and action by the AMBS faculty on the recommendation.
Admission to the MDiv degree program is contingent upon the following:
•
Completion of Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP)
•
Supporting evidence of the student’s call to ministry
•
Completion of personality inventories
•
Submission of a plan for growth in spiritual formation
•
Recommendations of the student’s LEAP faculty leader and academic adviser
•
Action of the Admissions and Assessment Committee and the AMBS faculty
Students transferring into AMBS after a year or more of study at another accredited graduate school must solicit statements and recommendations in support of their admission to the MDiv degree program from congregational leaders, mentors, or ministry supervisors, as well as submit written assessments from previous schools. These recommendations should be submitted prior to enrollment in the second-year Ministry in Church and World course. The Admissions and Assessment Committee or the MDiv Director will review the petition and make a recommendation to the faculty; action by the faculty on the recommendation is required.
14 Academic programs • Master of Divinity
Common requirements for all MDiv majors
Thirty-six hours of common curriculum are shared by all majors of the Master of Divinity degree program and the Master of Divinity dual degree programs. Students are strongly encouraged to take the following courses in the sequence outlined in the plan of study for their major. (Credit hours are on the right.)
••
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective....................................2
••
Reading the Bible.....................................................................................3
••
Old Testament or New Testament Book Study......................................3
••
Anabaptist History and Theology*.........................................................3
••
Christian Theology 1...............................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 2...............................................................................3
••
Church History elective*.........................................................................3
••
Ethics elective...........................................................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness................................................3
••
Ministry in Church and World Internship.............................................6
••
Supervised Ministry Experience.............................................................3
••
Capstone Ministry Assessment Seminar...............................................1
*Three two-credit hour online United Methodist courses in history, doctrine, and polity through Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary fulfill the requirements for Anabaptist History and Theology and the Church History elective.
Academic programs • Master of Divinity 15
Master of Divinity
Pastoral Ministry major
The Pastoral Ministry major is designed and recommended for students who are pre­paring to be leaders in congregational settings. Missional theology interpreted with an Anabaptist perspective and expressed in local and global church contexts is a key perspective of this major. Courses in biblical studies, theology, church history, and ethics examine the ways in which the tradition, context, and narratives of God’s sha­lom shape the responses of faith communities. Attention will be given to the critical role that culture plays in forming narratives and values that may compete with the biblical vision of God’s reign. Courses in practical theology center on practices that build the competence of missional leaders for the church.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old or New Testament exegesis.................................................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Ethics elective.............................................................................................................3
Major requirements.......................................................................................15
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
••
Understanding the Church’s Contexts (recommended)
or Cultural Hermeneutics or another social analysis course..................................3
Other electives..............................................................................................14
16 Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Pastoral Ministry majorPastoral Ministry major for United Methodist students
AMBS and Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary (G-ETS), Evanston, Ill., work in partnership to offer an MDiv in pastoral ministry for United Methodist students who are preparing for ordination, a partnership endorsed by the University Senate of The United Methodist Church. AMBS is currently approved to offer an 80-credit hour MDiv for United Methodist students. UM students take 15 credit hours from G-ETS to earn a Certificate in United Methodist Studies. These courses meet six key United Methodist educational requirements—United Methodist History, Doctrine, and Polity; Evangelism; Mission of the Church in the World; and Worship. They replace other courses normally required in the AMBS MDiv pastoral ministry concentration. G-ETS courses are frequently taught online or as intensives in January or summer. Further information about the partnership, the G-ETS certificate, how to register and fees can be found at www.garrett.edu/ambs-partnership/ambs-students and www.ambs.edu/academics/United-Methodist-Master-of-Divinity.cfm. Or contact the AMBS registrar: registrar@ambs.edu.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements..................................................................................36
••
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP)........................................2
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Old Testament or New Testament Book Study........................................................3
••
United Methodist Doctrine (G-ETS)........................................................................2
••
United Methodist History (G-ETS)..........................................................................2
••
United Methodist Polity (G-ETS).............................................................................2
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 2.................................................................................................3
••
Ethics elective.............................................................................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
Ministry in Church and World.................................................................................6
••
Supervised Ministry Experience...............................................................................3
••
Capstone Ministry Assessment Seminar.................................................................1
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old or New Testament exegesis.................................................................................3
Academic programs • Pastoral Ministry major for United Methodist students 17Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Ethics elective.............................................................................................................3
Major requirements ......................................................................................22
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Foundations of Preaching..........................................................................................2
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
••
Understanding the Church’s Contexts (recommended)
or Cultural Hermeneutics or another social analysis course..................................3
••
United Methodist Worship: Theory and Practice (G-ETS) ....................................3
••
A United Methodist mission of the church in the world course (G-ETS)..............3
••
A United Methodist evangelism course (G-ETS).....................................................3
Other electives................................................................................................7
18 Academic programs • Pastoral Ministry major for United Methodist studentsMaster of Divinity
Pastoral Care and Counseling major
(with emphasis on congregational care, chaplaincy, and healing)
The Pastoral Care and Counseling major educates students for this ministry from an Anabaptist-Mennonite perspective that values the physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual well-being of the individual; contributes to mutual care and discipling in the Christian community; and supports students’ calls to ministry and service in the world. It prepares students for the specialized ministries of pastoral care in congregations, faith-based agencies, and chaplaincy. This concentration includes courses and supervised practice that are essential to the process of certification in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors (AAPC) and the Canadian Association for Spiritual Care. Studies in this concentration are necessary for people interested in membership in the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE).
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Psalms or Job and Wisdom........................................................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Psalms or Job and Wisdom........................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Human Sexuality and Christian Ethics....................................................................3
Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Pastoral Care and Counseling major 19Major requirements .......................................................................................21
••
Family Systems and Pastoral Care............................................................................2
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Pastoral Counseling and Theology ..........................................................................2
••
Pastoral Counseling Practicum: Advanced Theory and Practice............................4
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
••
Religious and Psychological Assessment..................................................................2
••
Spiritual Guidance Practicum ..................................................................................4
••
Spirituality, Pastoral Care, and Healing...................................................................2
Other electives................................................................................................8
20 Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Pastoral Care and Counseling major
Master of Divinity
Christian Faith Formation major
The Christian Faith Formation major prepares leaders to strengthen the capacities of adults, youth, and children to respond to God’s saving love and grace and to nurture responses of faith in others. It reflects an Anabaptist emphasis on the congregation and the family as privileged spaces for developing Christian faith and character. Students may minister in congregational settings or retreat settings, schools, faith-based community centers and organizations, and retirement communities. Courses in biblical studies, theology, history, and ethics examine ways in which personal faith, the church, and cultural context shape Christian vocation and identity over a lifetime. Careful theological reflections will examine how cultures found inside and outside of North America create pressures and opportunities for claiming Christian identity and living as disciples of Jesus Christ.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John.......................................................................................... 3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
Church and Ministry
••
Teaching the Bible in the Congregation....................................................................3
Ethics
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making, Thinking Ethically,
Seminar in Theology: Baptism, or History of Christian Spirituality....................3
Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Christian Faith Formation major 21
Major requirements ......................................................................................16
••
Christian Ritual in Worship......................................................................................2
••
Cultural Hermeneutics or Understanding the Church’s Contexts..........................3
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Two Faith Formation and Spirituality courses.........................................................4
Other electives..............................................................................................13
22 Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Christian Faith Formation major
Master of Divinity
Christian Leadership major
The Christian Leadership major prepares students for missional leadership in church organizations and faith-based ministry settings. Studies focus on missional leadership grounded in the biblical promise and reality of shalom. Through elective courses available through AMBS and the Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education (SCUPE), students may focus their studies in areas such as creation care, urban ministry, or social justice work.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John.......................................................................................... 3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old Testament or New Testament exegesis course..................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Ethics for organizations.............................................................................................3
Major requirements ......................................................................................15
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
Cultural Hermeneutics or Understanding the Church’s Context...........................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Leading Transformational Change...........................................................................3
Other electives..............................................................................................14
Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Christian Leadership major 23
Master of Divinity
Theological Studies major
The Theological Studies major has three areas of focus: biblical studies; history, theology and ethics; and peace studies. Preparation for ministry in the context of the church (including congregational, teaching in religious schools, and faith-based administrative ministries) is the primary purpose of this major. It allows flexibility for students, in consultation with their advisers, to tailor their learning needs with their past experience and vocational goals. Students studying in this major may exercise the option of writing a thesis.
Theological Studies major
Biblical Studies
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Biblical studies and other degree requirements..........................................29
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets.......................................................................................3
••
Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels............................................................................3
••
Old Testament exegesis course..................................................................................3
••
New Testament exegesis course................................................................................3
••
Biblical Studies Seminar............................................................................................3
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
A pedagogy course ....................................................................................................2
Other electives..............................................................................................15
24 Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Theological Studies major
Theological Studies major
History, Theology, and Ethics
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
Biblical studies elective..............................................................................................3
••
Church history elective..............................................................................................3
••
Ethics elective.............................................................................................................3
Major requirements.......................................................................................15
••
Any courses from the History, Theology, and Ethics catalog listings (pp. ??)
Other electives..............................................................................................14
Theological Studies major
Peace Studies
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements...........................................................................11
••
Biblical Foundations of Peace and Justice.................................................................3
••
Education for Peace and Justice.................................................................................2
••
Old or New Testament book study or Thematic study............................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study or Thematic study............................................3
Major requirements.......................................................................................15
••
Any course from approved Peace Studies list (p. ??)
Other electives..............................................................................................18
Academic programs • Master of Divinity • Theological Studies major 25
Master of Arts
in Christian Formation (MACF)
Educational goals
Graduates with an MACF will:
1.
Articulate or otherwise demonstrate knowledge of the biblical, historical,
and theological disciplines that undergird their ministry of leadership.
2.
Reflect critically, contextually, and constructively on the theological content and practices of their specialized ministries.
3.
Demonstrate the ability to locate, evaluate, and use information and resources effectively.
4.
Exercise competent leadership through designing, implementing, and assessing ministry experiences in their specialized ministries.
5.
Demonstrate skills for equipping, training, and empowering leaders for specialized ministries.
6.
Assess their own growth toward spiritual and personal maturity.
7.
Clarify and develop a ministerial identity.
Purpose
The MACF is a professional degree whose purpose is to educate and equip students for leadership in Christian formation ministries of the church. AMBS provides a context, a process, and tools for students to study and engage the ministries of personal and congregational formation. The degree program does not prepare them to serve as lead or solo pastors.
Design
The MACF is a 60-credit-hour degree with two concentrations: Christian Spirituality and Public Ministries (Teaching and Worship). Students participate in the Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective course at the beginning of their studies. A supervised practicum is required in both concentrations.
Advancement to candidacy
Students applying to the MACF program are admitted to the program on admis­sion to AMBS. Upon completion of Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective (LEAP) and the petition process, advancement to candidacy for the MACF degree
in one of the two concentrations is upon approval of the faculty based on
recommendations of the student’s adviser, LEAP faculty leader, and MA director.
26 Academic programs • Master of Arts in Christian Formation
Final project
Students in the MACF program will complete a final project that 1) is approved by the student’s adviser and the MA director at the beginning of the student’s second year of study (or equivalent); 2) utilizes knowledge gained from courses required in the degree program and other readings designated by the Church and Ministry department; 3) develops a ministry program appropriate to the student’s preparation that could be implemented in a particular ministry setting; 4) provides commentary on the biblical, theological, and historical assumptions that undergird the program’s structure and content; 5) provides a progress report on the program’s implementation; and 6) provides the student’s assessment of what she or he has learned about leadership through the program’s development process. The written project report will be presented to the student’s adviser and one other faculty member in an oral interview. Students must successfully complete the project and the interview in order to graduate.
Academic programs • Master of Arts in Christian Formation 27
Master of Arts in Christian Formation
Christian Spirituality concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Formation..................................................................................................2
Course description on p. 119
••
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective......................................................2
Bible................................................................................................................12
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Biblical Spirituality or book study of a Gospel........................................................3
••
Psalms.........................................................................................................................3
••
Elective.......................................................................................................................3
History, Theology, and Ethics.......................................................................12
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 2.................................................................................................3
••
History of Christian Spirituality..............................................................................3
Church and Ministry......................................................................................14
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
Christian Formation in the Congregation................................................................2
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
Courses in concentration................................................................................12
••
Spiritual Guidance Practicum...................................................................................4
••
Spiritual Practices courses.........................................................................................3
••
Faith Formation Seminar...........................................................................................2
••
Three hours from among the following:
Art in Worship....................................................................................................................3
Christian Ritual in Worship (+ a one-credit-hour project).............................................3
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making......................................................3
Creation Care: Theology, Ethics and Spirituality............................................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................8
28 Academic programs • Master of Arts in Christian Formation • Christian Spirituality concentration
Master of Arts in Christian Formation
Public Ministries concentration (Teaching and Worship)
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Formation..................................................................................................2
Course description on p. 119
••
Leadership Education in Anabaptist Perspective......................................................2
Bible................................................................................................................12
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Psalms or Old Testament book study........................................................................3
••
Biblical Spirituality or book study of a Gospel........................................................3
••
Elective.......................................................................................................................3
History, Theology, and Ethics.......................................................................12
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 1................................................................................................ 3
••
Christian Theology 2.................................................................................................3
••
History of Christian Spirituality..............................................................................3
Church and Ministry......................................................................................14
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
Christian Formation in the Congregation................................................................2
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
Courses in concentration................................................................................12
••
CHM Practica......................................................................................................... 4
••
Faith Formation Seminar....................................................................................... 2
••
Teaching the Bible in the Congregation................................................................ 3
••
Three hours from among the following
••
Art in Worship ....................................................................................................... 3
Biblical Storytelling ........................................................................................................ 3
Christian Ritual in Worship (+ a one-credit-hour project) ......................................... 3
Education for Peace and Justice (+ a one-credit-hour project) ..................................... 3
Performing the Faith ...................................................................................................... 3
General Electives.............................................................................................8
Academic programs • Master of Arts in Christian Formation • Public Ministries concentration (Teaching and Worship) 29
Master of Arts: Peace Studies (MAPS)
Educational goals
Graduates with a MAPS will:
1.
Articulate and explain the biblical and theological foundations
of peace and justice.
2.
Converse persuasively and sensitively about Anabaptist-Mennonite
approaches to peace and justice issues.
3.
Demonstrate a commitment to spiritual growth that sustains peace-
and justice-making.
4.
Demonstrate growth toward faithful and competent responses to conflict.
5.
Use the resources of social science and history to help analyze peace and justice issues.
6.
Demonstrate the ability to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively.
Purpose
The MAPS is an academic degree program that provides the environment for a deepening understanding of and commitment to the biblical vision of peace and justice and its embodiment in the world. The program is grounded in the assumption that Christ calls us to become part of a new community whose mission is to partici­pate in God’s reconciling work throughout the world. The MAPS program prepares students for peace and justice ministries in local and global settings.
Design
The MAPS Primary Program emphasizes the biblical, theological, ethical, and historical aspects of peace and justice studies that reflect AMBS’s Anabaptist, Mennonite, and biblical character. Three concentrations draw on the resources of regional schools, integrating study with specific areas of ministry: Conflict Transformation, Community Development and International Development Administration. AMBS works in partnership with the following institutions to offer these concentrations:
•
Conflict Transformation: Goshen College, Goshen, Ind.
•
Community Development: Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral
Education (SCUPE)
•
International Development Administration: Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Mich. (Students pay Andrews University tuition and fees; AMBS financial aid does not apply).
30 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies
Advancement to candidacy
Students applying to the MAPS program will be admitted to the program on admission to AMBS. Upon completion of the MA Symposium and petition process, advancement to candidacy for the MAPS degree will be on approval of the faculty, based on recommendations of the student’s adviser, the MA Symposium leader,
and the MA director.
MAPS Integrative Seminar and comprehensive interview
A six-hour integrative seminar, which includes a supervised practicum, is required of all MAPS students during their final year of study.
In the MAPS Integrative Seminar students will reflect on and evaluate their practicum work integrating this experience with their other peace and justice studies. During the second semester, MAPS students will identify an experience or theme emerging from the practicum that provides the basis of a paper demonstrating their abilities to synthesize their ministry and their thinking on peace and justice. The paper will serve as the basis for the MAPS comprehensive interview with the student’s adviser and the faculty member who leads the MAPS Integrative Seminar. MAPS students must satisfactorily complete the comprehensive interview to be eligible for graduation.
Thesis option
Students with demonstrated ability to do advanced work and who wish to write a thesis may consult with their adviser and the MA director. If they meet the criteria for writing a thesis, they may petition for approval to do so. If a student writes a thesis, a thesis presentation and defense will be required. (More information is available in the MA Student Manual.) Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies 31
Master of Arts: Peace Studies
Primary program
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium.........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
2 Thinking Ethically is required unless equivalent background can be demonstrated. If a student can demonstrate such, another theological or social ethics course may be substituted.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................33
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-Making.............................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Peace and justice elective with anti-oppression analysis
(e.g., Economic Justice, Church and Race, or Gender and Justice)...........................3
••
Social Theory for Christian Peacemakers................................................................3
••
Peace and Justice elective...........................................................................................3
32 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • Primary program
Electives in Peace Studies..............................................................................9
The courses listed below are approved as “Electives in Peace Studies.” Courses other than those listed also may be approved if course requirements are tailored to meet peace and justice studies interests and if they are approved by the director of peace and justice studies and the student’s adviser. Six hours of thesis work may fulfill three credit hours of peace studies elective hours and three hours of general electives.
••
Biblical Perspectives on Atonement (BIB654)..........................................................3
••
Church and Race (HTE649).......................................................................................3
••
Church and Society (HTE561, cross listed with CHM559).....................................3
••
Creation Care: Theology, Ethics, and Spirituality (HTE531)..................................3
••
Cultural Hermeneutics (CHM610)...........................................................................3
••
Economic Justice and Christian Conscience (HTE641)............................................3
••
Education for Peace and Justice (CHM542)..............................................................2
••
International Politics in Christian Perspective (HTE643).......................................3
••
John H. Yoder’s Theological Legacy (HTE633)........................................................3
••
Peace Colloquium (HTE535) (up to 3 hrs total).......................................................1
••
Seminar in Ethics (HTE654).....................................................................................3
••
Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education courses (SCUPE)
••
Theology and Ethics of the Gospels (BIB642)..........................................................3
••
Theology in Latin American Perspective (HTE659)................................................3
••
The Trail of Death: A Pilgrimage of Remembrance
Lament and Transformation (HTE564 or CHM518)...............................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................7
Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • Primary program 33
Master of Arts: Peace Studies
Community Development concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium.........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
2 Thinking Ethically is required; however if equivalent background can be demonstrated, another theological or social ethics course may be substituted.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................33
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making.............................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Peace and justice elective with anti-oppression analysis
(e.g., Economic Justice, Church and Race, or Gender and Justice)...........................3
••
Social Theory for Christian Peacemakers................................................................3
••
Peace and Justice elective...........................................................................................3
Courses in concentration from among the following through SCUPE..........9
Contact registrar for course descriptions.
Choose 9 hours from the following
••
Community Organizing and Direct Action.............................................................3
••
Diversity and Equity..................................................................................................3
••
Foundations of Social Justice.....................................................................................3
••
Historical Perspectives of Community Development..............................................3
••
Principles and Processes of Community Development...........................................3
34 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • Community Development concentration
Electives in Peace Studies..............................................................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................4
Master of Arts: Peace Studies
Conflict Transformation concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium.........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
2 Thinking Ethically is required; however if equivalent background can be demonstrated, another theological or social ethics course may be substituted.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................33
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making.............................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Peace and justice elective with anti-oppression analysis
(e.g., Economic Justice, Church and Race, or Gender and Justice)...........................3
••
Social Theory for Christian Peacemakers................................................................3
••
Peace and Justice elective...........................................................................................3
Courses in concentration from Goshen College.............................................9
Choose 9 hours from the following
••
PJCS 325 (3cr) Mediation: Process, Skills, Theory
••
PJCS 332 (3cr) Religion, Conflict and Peace
••
PJCS 347 (3cr) Restorative Justice
Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • Conflict Transformation concentration 35
••
PJCS 350 (3cr) Dynamics/Theology of Reconciliation
••
PJCS 426 (3cr) Conflict-healthy Groups
Electives in Peace Studies..............................................................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................4
Master of Arts: Peace Studies
International Development Administration concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium.........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
2 Thinking Ethically is required; however if equivalent background can be demonstrated, another theological or social ethics course may be substituted.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................33
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making.............................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Peace and justice elective with anti-oppression analysis
(e.g., Economic Justice, Church and Race, or Gender and Justice)...........................3
••
Peace and Justice elective...........................................................................................3
••
Social Theory for Christian Peacemakers................................................................3
36 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • International Development Administration concentration
Concentration requirements at Andrews University......................................9
See AMBS registrar
Electives in Peace Studies..............................................................................3
General Electives.............................................................................................4
Academic programs • Master of Arts: Peace Studies • International Development Administration concentration 37
Master of Arts:
Theological Studies (MATS)
Educational goals
Graduates with a MATS will:
1.
Demonstrate that they have a focused knowledge in a specific discipline
(i.e., church history, biblical studies, or theology/ethics) with some
exposure or knowledge of the others.
2.
Demonstrate the ability to interact critically with the major issues
of the discipline.
3.
Demonstrate competency in using appropriate research tools.
4.
Articulate the significance of their discipline of biblical studies, theology
and ethics, and/or church history for the mission of the church in the
world, and communicate that significance in some public setting.
5.
Articulate how they are integrating their intellectual and spiritual life
—how they are understanding and loving God more truly.
6.
Engage effectively with people of different theological and ethical perspectives.
7.
Demonstrate the ability to locate, evaluate, and use information effectively.
Purpose
The MATS program is an academic degree program that provides graduate educa­tion in several theological disciplines. The concentrations within the program are designed for people who desire a degree in theological studies as a supplement to their professional training; for those who want to enrich their participation in the life and mission of the church; and for students preparing for doctoral studies in a theological discipline.
Design
The MATS is a 60-credit-hour degree with three concentrations: Biblical Studies, Church History, and Theology and Ethics. Students participate in the MA Symposium at the start of their studies.
38 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Theological Studies
Advancement to candidacy
Students applying to the MATS program are admitted to the program on admission to AMBS. Upon completion of the MA Symposium and petition process, advancement to candidacy for the MATS degree in one of the three concentrations will be upon approval of the faculty based on recommendations of the student’s adviser, the MA Symposium leader, and the MA director.
Comprehensive examination and interview
Students in the MATS program normally register for and write a comprehensive examination in the spring semester of their final year of study. The written exam consists of questions prepared by faculty in the area of concentration, designed to test the student’s comprehensive knowledge of that area of theological study. Following completion of the exam, the student participates in an interview with the student’s adviser and one other faculty member. Students must successfully complete the exam process to graduate. (More information is available in the
MA Student Manual.)
Thesis option
Most students in the MATS program are expected to complete a comprehensive exam. Students with demonstrated ability to do advanced work and who wish to write a thesis may consult with their adviser and the MA director. If they meet the criteria for writing a thesis, they may petition for approval to do so. If a student writes a thesis, a thesis presentation and defense will be required. (More information is available in the MA Student Manual.)
Academic programs • Master of Arts:Theological Studies 39
Master of Arts: Theological Studies
Biblical Studies concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................9
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Two electives...............................................................................................................6
Church and Ministry........................................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
One elective................................................................................................................3
Courses in concentration...............................................................................30
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth...........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets.......................................................................................3
••
Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels............................................................................3
••
Old Testament exegesis course..................................................................................3
••
New Testament exegesis course................................................................................3
••
Seminar in Biblical Studies.......................................................................................3
••
Old Testament THeology...........................................................................................3
••
A biblical theology elective........................................................................................3
General Electives...........................................................................................13
40 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Theological Studies • Biblical Studies concentration
Master of Arts: Theological Studies
Church History concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Two Bible electives.....................................................................................................6
(Canon and Community highly recommended for this concentration)
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Theology elective.......................................................................................................3
••
Ethics elective ............................................................................................................3
Church and Ministry........................................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
One elective................................................................................................................3
Courses in concentration...............................................................................27
Course descriptions on pp. 84–87
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Christian History 1 or Christian History 2.............................................................3
••
Church History Survey course.................................................................................3
••
Six Church History electives ..................................................................................18
(Two courses with clear historical emphases may be chosen from other disciplines; e.g., Old Testament Theology)
General Electives...........................................................................................13
Academic programs • Master of Arts: Theological Studies • Church History concentration 41
Master of Arts: Theological Studies
Theology and Ethics concentration
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................2
Course description on p. 120
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
Bible.................................................................................................................9
Course descriptions on pp. 66–80
••
Three electives............................................................................................................9
(Reading the Bible recommended for this concentration)
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 84–87
••
One church history survey elective..........................................................................3
••
One church history elective......................................................................................3
Church and Ministry........................................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 98–117
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
One elective................................................................................................................3
Courses in concentration...............................................................................24
Course descriptions on pp. 84–91
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Christian Theology 2.................................................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically.....................................................................................................3
••
Three Theology and Ethics electives ........................................................................9
(One course with clear theological emphases may be chosen from another discipline; e.g., biblical theology and biblical ethics courses)
General Electives...........................................................................................13
42 Academic programs • Master of Arts: Theological Studies • Theology and Ethics concentration
Dual-degree programs
AMBS offers two dual-degree programs in cooperation with Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Mich., which combine the Master of Social Work with an AMBS degree. Students apply both to AMBS and to Andrews and must meet the expectations of each school’s program. Diplomas are granted by both schools. The dual degrees are organized to reduce the time required to complete both degrees by one academic year.
The Andrews University MSW degree is approved by the Council of Social Work Education. The dual-degree programs have been approved by AMBS’s two accredit­ing agencies.
Purpose of the dual-degree programs
The dual Master of Divinity and Master of Social Work (MSW) degrees prepare graduates for bivocational congregational ministry or for employment in faith-based agencies. The dual Master of Arts: Peace Studies and Master of Social Work degrees open up a wider range of employment for MAPS graduates by providing a biblical, theological, and ethical training base for the social work vocation. The MSW is the best masters-level degree to attain certification for counseling with third-party payment.
The purposes of the dual MDiv and MSW degrees are:
•
To provide an option for bivocational ministry preparation.
•
To provide a psychological, social, and clinical basis of training that will be recognized for third-party funding for social work and counseling employment.
•
To combine congregational ministerial leadership with local social service ministry, either in counseling or community administration and development.
The purposes of the dual MAPS and MSW degrees are:
•
To prepare MAPS graduates more broadly so that they will have leadership options for employment upon graduation.
•
To attract college graduates with a BSW who would enjoy the advantage of Advanced Standing at Andrews University, so that both degrees can be earned
in three years.
•
To serve the church by preparing graduates for social service ministries, such as in relief and development work, with strong biblical, theological, and ethical foundations.
44 Academic programs • Dual-degree programs
Admission to Andrews University
AMBS students interested in the dual-degree program must take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) for admission to Andrews University. They should apply for admis­sion to Andrews University during the first semester of their first year at AMBS and no later than early March of the year in which they wish to begin fall courses.
For details about the MSW program, see www.andrews.edu/cas/socialwork or contact the Social Work Department at Andrews University at 269.471.6196. For information regarding admission to Andrews University, contact the admissions office at 800.253.2874. The online application to Andrews University is found through the Social Work Department’s website: www.andrews.edu/cas/socialwork.
MDiv-MSW and MAPS-MSW field education/placement requirements
Andrews’ two-year program and Advanced Standing
The dual-degree programs for the MDiv-MSW use a joint field placement to satisfy the internship requirements.
The Andrews MSW program requires nine semester hours in field placements for their two year program: 400 hours of direct field work in Year 1 (Generalist Field Experience) for four credit hours, 500 hours in Year 2 (Advanced Field Experience) for five credit hours, and four Field Seminar courses for a total of two credit hours.
The AMBS MDiv/MSW program requires a joint field placement for dual-degree students with both ministerial and social work supervision. Students without advanced standing normally use the same field experience for Ministry in Church and World at AMBS and the Generalist Field Experience (Year 1) for the Andrews MSW field requirements.
The AMBS MAPS/MSW program requires a joint field placement for students with both peace theology and social work supervision. Students without advanced standing use the same field experience for the MAPS Integrative Seminar (which includes a practicum) at AMBS and the Generalist Field Experience (Year 1) of the Andrews MSW field requirements.
Academic programs • Dual-degree programs 45
AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work
Design
1.
By combining electives and field education requirements, the AMBS MDiv and Andrews University MSW programs can be earned in four years, rather than five, as would be the case if the programs were taken separately. Students already holding a Bachelor of Social Work degree may qualify for advanced standing
in the Andrews program so the MDiv and MSW degrees could be earned in
less time.
2.
Normally students concentrate on AMBS courses during the first year and then take MSW and AMBS courses over the next three years.
3.
Students are eligible for financial aid from AMBS based on combined hours at both schools. Financial aid is independently assessed and awarded at each institution. High GRE test scores may qualify students for significant tuition assistance from Andrews University.
4.
The AMBS director of missional leadership development works cooperatively with the Andrews MSW director of field education to find field placements that fulfill the expected learning requirements of both programs.
5.
Six semester hours of supervised AMBS field education are normally integrated with the four semester hours of Generalist Field Experience at Andrews. AMBS Ministry in Church and World placements and Andrews Generalist Field Experience are fulfilled simultaneously in the same ministry placement. AMBS Supervised Ministry Experience placements and Andrews Advanced Field Experience are fulfilled simultaneously in the same placement for students who do not qualify for advanced standing at Andrews. Students have both an MSW supervisor and a ministerial supervisor for all joint placement. Four semesters of field seminars are also required at Andrews. The total number of joint field placement credits is 17 for the AMBS MDiv Program (including Field Experience Seminar) and 11 for the MSW program.
6.
The policies of each institution’s field education programs apply for each student and placement.
7.
Four hours of electives in the MDiv program may be taken at AMBS or at Andrews.
8.
Students must complete the requirements of both programs to receive diplomas from both AMBS and Andrews University.
46 Academic programs • AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work
Policies guiding joint field placements
Field placements for students in the dual-degree program are to be made with these factors in mind:
•
A placement must enable the student to have both a qualified MSW supervisor and a qualified ministry supervisor.
•
A placement must enable the student to develop necessary professional social work and ministerial skills.
•
A placement must be compatible with the student’s geographical location whenever possible.
•
The Andrews MSW director of field education and the AMBS director of missional leadership development seek to locate a placement most suitable for the student.
AMBS Master of Divinity and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Four years
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth ..........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old or New Testament exegesis or thematic study..................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Theology or Ethics elective........................................................................................3
Academic programs • AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work 47
Major requirements.......................................................................................14
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Human Sexuality and Christian Ethics....................................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care or approved SCUPE offering........................................2
••
Pastoral Counseling and Theology or
Cultural Hermeneutics or approved SCUPE offering..............................................3
Andrews University credits transferred to AMBS........................................11
••
MSW Generalist Field Experience (400 hours direct field work)............................4
••
MSW Advanced Field Experience (500 hours direct field work).............................5
••
Four Field Seminars at Andrews............................................................................. 2
General electives (at either AMBS or Andrews)...........................................9
48 Academic programs • AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work
AMBS Master of Divinity and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Advanced Standing
Total credit hours .........................................................................................80
Common requirements (p. 15)........................................................................36
Other degree requirements..........................................................................15
Bible
Recommended Bible sequence
••
Beginning Hebrew: Ruth ..........................................................................................3
••
Beginning Greek: 1 John...........................................................................................3
••
Hebrew Readings: Prophets or Greek Readings: Synoptic Gospels........................3
••
Old or New Testament exegesis or thematic study..................................................3
Alternative Bible sequence
••
Introduction to Bible Study Tools.............................................................................3
••
Canon and Community.............................................................................................3
••
Old or New Testament book study............................................................................3
••
Thematic study...........................................................................................................3
Ethics
••
Theology or Ethics elective........................................................................................3
Major requirements.......................................................................................14
••
Christian Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Human Sexuality and Christian Ethics....................................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care or approved SCUPE offering........................................2
••
Pastoral Counseling and Theology or
Cultural Hermeneutics or approved SCUPE offering..............................................3
Andrews University credits transferred to AMBS.........................................7
••
Advanced Standing Field Experience .......................................................................6
••
Two Field Seminars at Andrews.............................................................................. 1
General electives (at either AMBS or Andrews)...........................................8
Academic programs • AMBS Master of Divinity and Andrews University Master of Social Work 49
Degree program Subhead
Running footer - Subhead
AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Design
1. By combining electives and field education requirements, the AMBS MAPS and
Andrews University MSW programs can be earned in three years, rather than
four, as would be the case if the programs were taken separately.
2. Normally students concentrate on AMBS courses during the first year and then
take MSW and AMBS courses over the next two years.
3. Students are eligible for financial aid from AMBS based on combined hours
at both schools. Financial aid is independently assessed and awarded at each
institution. High GRE test scores may qualify students for significant tuition
assistance from Andrews University.
4. The MAPS Integrative Seminar faculty leader at AMBS or the director of
missional leadership development at AMBS works cooperatively with the
Andrews MSW director of field education to find field placements that fulfill the
expected learning requirements of both programs.
5. Six semester hours of MAPS Integrative Seminar at AMBS, with a supervised
practicum, are normally taken in conjunction with four semester hours of
Generalist Field Experience at Andrews for the MSW. Students have both an
MSW supervisor at Andrews and a peace theology and praxis supervisor at
AMBS for this joint placement. Additionally, five semester hours of Advanced
Field Experience are taken through Andrews, fulfilling joint credit requirements
with AMBS. Four semesters of Field Seminar are also required at Andrews. The
total number of joint field placement credits is 17 for the AMBS MAPS program
(including Field Seminars) and 11 for the MSW program.
6. The policies of each institution’s field placement programs apply for each student
and placement.
7. Four credit hours of elective courses at Andrews or AMBS are used to complete
the MAPS requirements.
8. Students must complete the requirements of both programs to receive diplomas
from both AMBS and Andrews University.
50 Academic programs • AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and Andrews University Master of Social Work
AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course description on p. 68
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
••
Anabaptist History and Theology2.......................................................................... 3
2 Thinking Ethically and Anabaptist History and Theology are required unless equivalent background can be demonstrated. If a student can demonstrate this, other courses may be substituted, subject to the adviser’s approval.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................15
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
AMBS Peace Studies electives.....................................................................13
List of electives on p. 33. Directory for course descriptions on p. 128.
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................8
Course descriptions on pp. 120–121
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
Andrews University credits transferred to AMBS........................................11
••
Generalist Field Experience (400 hours direct field work).......................................4
••
Advanced Field Experience (500 hours direct field work)........................................5
••
Four Field Seminars at Andrews...............................................................................2
General Electives at either Andrews or AMBS.............................................4
Academic programs • AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies andAndrews University Master of Social Work 51
AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies and
Andrews University Master of Social Work
Advanced Standing
Total credit hours .........................................................................................60
Bible.................................................................................................................3
Course descriptions on p. 68
••
Reading the Bible1......................................................................................................3
1 Reading the Bible is required unless evidence of equivalent background can be demonstrated. If this is the case, a more advanced Bible elective with a peace studies focus is required.
History, Theology, and Ethics........................................................................6
Course descriptions on pp. 82–96
••
Thinking Ethically2....................................................................................................3
••
Anabaptist History and Theology2.......................................................................... 3
2 Thinking Ethically and Anabaptist History and Theology are required unless equivalent background can be demonstrated. If a student can demonstrate this, other courses may be substituted, subject to the adviser’s approval.
MAPS core courses.......................................................................................15
Directory for course descriptions on p. 128
••
Biblical Foundations for Peace and Justice................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes Toward War, Peace, and Revolution........................................3
••
Introduction to Peace Studies and Nonviolence.......................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
AMBS Peace Studies electives.....................................................................13
List of electives on p. 33. Directory for course descriptions on p. 128.
MA Interdepartmental.....................................................................................8
Course descriptions on pp. 120–121
••
MA Symposium ........................................................................................................2
••
MAPS Integrative Seminar.......................................................................................6
Andrews University credits transferred to AMBS.........................................7
••
Advanced Standing Field Experience (500 hours direct field work)........................6
••
Two Field Seminars at Andrews................................................................................1
52 Academic programs • AMBS Master of Arts: Peace Studies andAndrews University Master of Social Work
Certificate programs
Purpose
AMBS certificate and programs are designed to provide professionals, congregational leaders, and bivocational pastors with a foundation in theological and biblical study, spiritual enrichment, and fuller integration of Christian faith in their work and ministry. The certificates do not meet the gainful employment criteria set by the U.S. Department of Education. In addition to three certificates, a concentration in peace studies is available to Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary students.
Design of certificate programs
A general Certificate in Theological Studies is available, along with two themed Certificates that support different expressions of ministry. Each certificate requires 27 credit hours. The general Certificate in Theological Studies could be completed in one year with full-time study, but also may be completed with part-time study over several years.
Completing a Certificate in Christian Spiritual Formation or a Certification in Pastoral Theology for Financial Professionals will involve part-time study over several years, because required courses are not always offered in the same year. For either of these certificates, all courses must be taken through AMBS, either on campus or in arranged off-campus offerings.
Certificate in Theological Studies
The Certificate in Theological Studies allows students to select courses for a special interest or ministry. People who seek basic theological training to enhance their participation in their congregation or profession or who desire opportunities for spiritual formation can develop a plan of study tailored to their interests.
At least nine credit hours must be taken either on the Elkhart campus or at AMBS–Kansas Center, which may include weekly face-to-face, weekend, hybrid, interterm, or summer sessions. Some credit from online courses may be applied toward this certificate. Up to twelve credit hours may be transferred from other accredited seminaries.
The following foundational courses are recommended, but not required, for students pursuing the Certificate in Theological Studies: Reading the Bible, one or both of the
54 Academic programs • Certificate programs
biblical languages or Introduction to Bible Study Tools, Thinking Ethically, Chris­tian Theology 1 and 2, God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness, and Anabaptist History and Theology.
Certificate in Christian Spiritual Formation
This certificate develops gifts and skills of leaders for nurturing Christian spiritual formation in the activities, practices, and programs of congregational life.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................27
Required courses......................................................................................18–19
••
Biblical Spirituality....................................................................................................3
••
Christian Formation in the Congregation................................................................2
••
Christian Theology 1.................................................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation*.....................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care*.......................................................................................2
••
Spiritual Guidance Practicum**................................................................................4
••
Spiritual Practices*.................................................................................................1–2
Recommended courses
••
Christian Spirituality for Peace- and Justice-making.............................................3
••
Faith Formation and Spirituality of Youth and Young Adults or another faith formation and spirituality course.............................................................................2
••
History of Christian Spirituality..............................................................................3
••
Psalms.........................................................................................................................3
••
Spiritual Practices..................................................................................................1–2
General electives.........................................................................................8–9
*Courses required before taking the Spiritual Guidance Practicum.
**The Spiritual Guidance Practicum requires students to complete the three courses noted above, to be active in their congregations, and to meet regularly with their
spiritual directors.
Academic programs • Certificate programs 55
Certificate in Pastoral Theology for Financial Professionals
Christian financial counselors will benefit from this program of study, which brings theological, pastoral, and ethical concerns to bear on the practices of financial counseling.
Total credit hours .........................................................................................27
Required courses...........................................................................................23
••
Luke-Acts: Mission Perspectives...............................................................................3
••
Principles of Pastoral Care.........................................................................................2
••
Thinking Ethically.....................................................................................................3
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Family Systems and Pastoral Care............................................................................2
••
Economic Justice and Christian Conscience.............................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation.............................................................3
••
Pastoral Counseling Practicum.................................................................................4
Electives...........................................................................................................4
••
Spiritual practices courses or other courses relevant for developing
competencies as a financial professional or one independent study
related to money, theology, or ethics........................................................................4
Peace studies concentration for Garrett-Evangelical students
MDiv students at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary may complete a concentration in peace studies that consists of five AMBS peace and justice studies courses, or 15 credit hours. Courses will be offered in a mix of online, intensive and regular semester courses on the AMBS campus in Elkhart, Ind. Students completing the concentration will have it reflected on their Garrett-Evangelical transcripts. More information about specific courses and the requirements that they meet can be found online at www.ambs.edu/academics/peace-studies-concentration-for-Garrett-Evangelical-students.cfm.
56 Academic programs • Certificate programs
AMBS–KANSAS CENTER
AMBS–Kansas Center
AMBS offers courses at AMBS–Kansas Center in North Newton, Kan. AMBS–Kansas Center is an extension site of and is owned by Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, based in Elkhart, Ind., and is accountable to the AMBS board. It provides graduate-level courses in central Kansas and other Mennonite centers in the Great Plains region.
Students enrolled in the MDiv degree are MDiv Connect students who may take some courses face-to-face through AMBS–Kansas Center rather than online; residency requirements apply. MA students may take courses toward their degree programs through AMBS–Kansas Center, but will need to complete their degrees on the Elkhart campus. A minimum of 27 hours in either program must be taken at AMBS in Elkhart, Ind., through on-campus or hybrid course offerings.
Degree programs
AMBS–Kansas Center students may pursue any of the degree programs offered by AMBS. A list of courses for each term is available from the office and at www.ambs.edu/KansasCenter.
Courses
AMBS–Kansas Center offers one course each term—fall, interterm, spring and summer. Some of these courses are offered for graduate credit by Bethel College, and KIPCOR, both in North Newton, Kan.
Continuing education
Pastors and other church leaders are encouraged to take AMBS–Kansas Center courses for continuing education. Auditors and for-credit students are welcome in most classes.
Library resources
AMBS–Kansas Center students have access to four libraries:
•
AMBS’s collection of online books and journals.
•
The AMBS library in Elkhart, Ind. Books can be mailed to students.
•
The Conference Resource Library in North Newton, Kan., at 2517 Main.
58 AMBS–Kansas CenterAdmission, tuition, and financial aid
Policies for admission, tuition, and financial aid for students at AMBS–Kansas Center are the same as they are for students on the Elkhart campus. Please visit the AMBS website, www.ambs.edu/admissions/index.cfm, and the AMBS Policies and Procedures Manual at AMBS Central for details.
Coordinator
Katherine Goerzen, kccoordinator@ambs.edu
Faculty
Lois Barrett, Ph.D � Professor of Theology and Anabaptist Studies
Keith Harder, D.Min. � Core Adjunct Faculty (Church and Ministry)
Patricia Shelly, Ph.D. � Core Adjunct Faculty (Bible)
Jerry Truex, Ph.D. � Core Adjunct Faculty (Bible)
Sessional faculty, 2014–15
•
Gary Flory, J.D., teaching Conflict, Communication, and Conciliation
•
Justin Heinzekehr, ABD, teaching Thinking Ethically
•
S. Roy Kaufman, MDiv, teaching Rural Ministry
•
Douglas Miller, Ph.D., leading Jerusalem Seminar
•
Patty Shelly, Ph.D., leading Jerusalem Seminar
•
Kirsten Zerger, J.D., teaching Conflict, Conciliation, and Communication
AMBS–Kansas Center 59AMBS–Kansas Center facilities
22517 N Main St., North Newton, KS 67117
•
Administrative office
•
Conference Resource Library
(Western District and South Central Mennonite Conferences)
AMBS Library, Elkhart, Indiana
Library resources on the AMBS campus are available to AMBS–Kansas Center students through:
•
Online resources (e.g., ATLA database, online books, journals)
•
Books sent by mail
Contact information
More information on AMBS–Kansas Center is available from Katherine Goerzen, AMBS–Kansas Center coordinator, or Brenna Harker, admissions counselor in the AMBS admissions office.
Mailing address � P.O. Box 306, North Newton, KS 67117
Street address � 2505 North Main Street, North Newton, Kan.
Email � kccoordinator@ambs.edu or
bharker@ambs.edu
Phone � 316.283.7098
Website � www.ambs.edu/kansascenter
60 AMBS–Kansas Center
AMBS–Kansas Center Foundation Program of Study
Western District Conference and South Central Conference of Mennonite Church USA expect pastors, especially those seeking ordination, to continue learning as professionals engaged in the vocation of ministry. One way for pastors to meet minimum educational requirements is by taking a specified group of courses through AMBS and completing the Foundation Program of Study, which meets the needs of pastors and others wanting to fulfill conference requirements for ordination. These credits also could apply to an AMBS MDiv or MA program in the future. Credits for this program can be taken at AMBS–Kansas Center or through online, hybrid, and Elkhart campus courses. Audit and continuing education hours are not accepted in this Foundation Program of Study.
This Foundation Program of Study is structured around the six competencies for ordination in the Mennonite Church USA Ministerial Credential, Competencies and Education Grid. The number of credit hours listed for each category must be met in order to complete the program. Specific courses listed below are recommendations within a particular category and do not constitute a requirement or an exhaustive list. For those seeking ordination, options in this 27-hour academic requirement will be determined by the Leadership Commission in each conference for each student. Those not seeking ordination may choose courses tailored to their interests.
Total credit hours..........................................................................................27
In each category below, recommended courses are listed. However, other courses fitting the categories and approved by the adviser myay be taken in place of a recommended course.
Biblical story....................................................................................................6
••
Reading the Bible.......................................................................................................3
••
Teaching the Bible in the Congregation....................................................................3
••
What about the Bible? The Authority of Scripture for Christians.........................3
••
A Bible thematic study or book study.......................................................................3
Anabaptist-Mennonite story, theology, and convictions ..............................6
••
Anabaptist History and Theology.............................................................................3
••
Global Mennonite History........................................................................................3
••
Thinking Ethically or any ethics elective................................................................3
••
God’s Shalom and the Church’s Witness..................................................................3
••
Christian Attitudes to War, Peace, and Revolution.................................................3
Christian spirituality/discipleship....................................................................5
••
Foundations of Worship and Preaching....................................................................4
••
Any of the Spiritual Practices courses......................................................................1
••
History of Christian Spirituality..............................................................................3
••
Biblical Spirituality....................................................................................................3
AMBS–Kansas Center • AMBS–Kansas Center Foundation Program of Study 61Self-understanding and awareness, emotional intelligence..........................3
••
Family Systems and Pastoral Care............................................................................3
••
Human Development and Christian Formation......................................................3
••
Conflict, Communication and Conciliation.......................................................2 or 3
Contextual awareness......................................................................................3
••
Rural Ministry...........................................................................................................1
••
Understanding the Church’s Contexts......................................................................3
••
Managing Differences in Faith Communities.........................................................1
••
Jerusalem Seminar.....................................................................................................3
••
The Trail of Death: A Pilgrimage of Remembrance, Lament,
and Transformation....................................................................................................3
Leadership.......................................................................................................4
••
Leadership in the 21st Century................................................................................2
••
Understanding and Managing Congregational Conflict.........................................1
••
Leading Transformational Change...........................................................................2
••
Mennonite Polity.......................................................................................................1
••
Managing Differences in Faith Communities.........................................................1
62 AMBS–Kansas Center • ﻿COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Introduction
Courses offered by AMBS are organized into three departments and a fourth group of ministry formation and assessment courses:
•
Bible (BIB)
•
History, Theology, and Ethics (HTE)
•
Church and Ministry (CHM)
•
Ministry Formation and Assessment (INT)
Within each group, courses are designated in various categories, matching current requirements of degree programs of study. Students working with a previous program of study may need to consult with their advisers or the registrar to determine which courses will meet older requirements.
This catalog contains brief descriptions of courses offered with some regularity. Syllabi of courses taught in the previous three years are available on AMBS Central (a Moodle “course” accessible to anyone who has registered for an AMBS class). Students should note that these syllabi are from previous offerings of courses and are subject to change when the courses are next offered.
Nomenclature for courses offered at AMBS
On-campus face-to-face courses meet for the equivalent of fourteen weeks on the AMBS campus in Elkhart or at AMBS–Kansas Center. Classroom sessions have accompanying assignments outside of each class session. While these courses have online requirements, synchronous classroom learning is a central element of the course. A course ID that has only the department abbreviation and three-digit number indicates that the couse is taught only on campus.
Online courses have the equivalent of a fourteen-week duration with asynchronous learning. All course activities are mediated through an online course management system. Students may interact with professors and peers through course discussion boards, email, video chats, or other means. These courses are planned for the duration of a regular semester. If a course is taught online, the course ID will include the department abbreviation and three-digit number followed by “E” and the description will indicate it is taught online.
Hybrid courses have the equivalent of a fourte